When Bullying Becomes Policy: A Threat to Our Rights and Communities

"Who better understands bullying than the LGBTQ+ community?" ~ Tom Edwards, PPSRQ Executive Director

Across the country, we’re witnessing a disturbing trend: political leadership that doesn’t just tolerate bullying—it actively participates in it. These leaders are targeting vulnerable populations, including women, Hispanic and Black Americans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others, as if their rights under the law and Constitution are somehow negotiable.

This kind of exclusionary behavior isn’t just ethically wrong—it’s a fundamental threat to the fabric of our society. And while bullying is often viewed through a social or emotional lens, its consequences ripple through our workplaces, schools, neighborhoods, and even our economy.

Attacks on Rights: What’s Happening?

• LGBTQ+ Rights: From bans on gender-affirming care to laws that silence discussion of LGBTQ+ identities in schools, the community is under legislative assault.

• Women’s Rights: Rollbacks on reproductive freedoms and continued gender-based wage gaps limit opportunities and autonomy.

• Hispanic and Black Communities: Voting rights are being suppressed through restrictive laws, while unequal treatment in education, housing, and the justice system remains prevalent.

These are not isolated incidents—they are strategic moves designed to undermine full participation and equality.

Why This Hurts Everyone

Policies that marginalize certain groups do more than just harm the individuals directly affected. They weaken our workforce, divide our communities, and reduce our collective potential. As Edwards puts it:

"Bullying isn’t just an ethical wrong – it’s in opposition to good social and business practices, eliminating key elements of our workplace and consumer communities."

When every member of society is empowered to participate fully—when rights are protected, voices are heard, and talents are nurtured—we all benefit. Our economy thrives, our democracy strengthens, and our culture flourishes.

Where Community and Pride Intersect

Standing up against bullying in all its forms—including when it comes from those in power—is not just a moral imperative. It’s essential for the future of a strong, inclusive, and prosperous America. Project Pride is committed to working in the community to create safe places for ALL citizens. As Tom Edwards reminds us, “Our society and country and economy are stronger when ALL of its members have full rights and participation.”

Let’s make sure that truth doesn’t get drowned out by the noise of division.