In the world of theatre and film, there is no tolerance for bullying. We should strive to stand up to bullying with the ultimate goal of getting rid of it entirely. In our schools, rehearsals, and within our projects, we should strive to create safe spaces where everyone has equal opportunities to express their creativity.
Bullying does not just mean one person physically harming another person. Bullying includes any type of behavior that is intended to harm another person, whether it be physically, verbally, mentally, or emotionally. Bullying includes calling other people names, straight to their face or behind their back. Bullying can take place online, through social media, or through phone calls and texts. Bullying can look like gossiping about another’s appearance, imitating the way their voice sounds, or mimicking the way they move around.
Unfortunately, people with disabilities are often targeted victims of bullying. Some studies have reported that students with disabilities are 2-3x more likely to be bullied than students without disabilities. To help put an end to bullying, we each have an important role to play. We can advocate for those who may not be able to stand up for themselves. We can speak up when we witness bullying. We can seek help from trustworthy teachers, counselors, family members, and friends.
Truth be told, anyone can be a victim of bullying. Bullying can discourage someone from being vulnerable, creative, or going after their goals in life. The fields of theatre and film have the potential to offer safe, nonjudgmental places to try new things, take risks, and learn from our mistakes. So, it is especially important that in the worlds of theatre and film, we create a safe environment for education and growth. To do this, we need to be dedicated to not participate in bullying of any form and put an end to any type of bullying we may witness!
Students With Disabilities Scenario #4:
Get into groups of three and read/act out the following scenario text messages. Then in your groups, discuss the follow-up questions.
The text messages are between three scene partners. The fourth partner, Tania, was not included in this message thread. Tania happens to be Deaf. The text messages may be acted out or simply read aloud.
- At this point, Kira knows she needs to step in and say something. If you were Kira, how would you respond to Joe and Hannah?
- Try acting it out or re-reading the texts, but this time, with your response!
- Say Kira chose not to respond, what do you think would be something good for her to do?
- Should she inform Ms. Walton of the texts? Her friends? Family members? The school principal?
- Even though Tania is not a part of the group message, why is the conversation that Hannah and Joe are having still a form of bullying?
With your group, discuss a plan of action you can make so that if you were ever in Kira’s shoes- in-person, on social media, or through text messages- you’ll be prepared!
Download Learn More About: No Tolerance For Bullying (English) here.