Two weeks ago,  a Buffalo, NY teen committed suicide to escape the daily harassment he faced due to his sexual orientation. Jamey Rodemeyer was described a sweet person with a huge heart who bravely tried to inspire others in his situation through the “It Gets Better” campaign. Despite dealing with his own personal torment, Jamey posted a YouTube video telling others dealing with the same problem that it would get better. To be a position such a Jamey’s where you are saying those words out loud, “It gets better,” broadcasting them for the world to hear, but are unable to find that same hope for yourself is unimaginable.

The same taunts that Jamey faced daily – being called “fag” and “girly girl” – tons of other students also face on a daily basis. Jamey had a supportive family and was seeking the help of professional therapists. Until those that harass are held accountable for their actions each time they exhibit those despicable actions, there will be no solace for kids who face that kind of torture. Students who bully must be held accountable. It is easy to say (as I have heard a million times) that those that get bullied should just get tougher. They should just not listen to those people who insult them. Anyone who says that must never have been in a victim’s situation. The way I try to explain it to kids is to think of the one thing that you are most insecure about – your weight, your acne, your height, your family life, your sexuality, your intelligence. Then imagine that everyone else not only noticed your insecurity, but pointed it out to you every second they could. They made you feel worse about it every time you stepped out of your house or logged onto your computer. Our own insecurities are enough to keep us teetering between good and bad self esteem. When the rest of your peer group decides to point out what you think are your biggest flaws to everyone else, the scale quickly tips.

Jamey Rodemeyer was a shining example of someone who tried to inspire in spite of personal struggle.. His death is a tragedy and his message is very powerful. Maybe this will be the time everyone can learn how important it is to treat everyone around you with respect.