Educational Media Reviews Online

“It’s hard enough trying to figure out who you are and where you fit in without someone calling you names or bullying you, and on a typical day, experts say as many as 160,000 kids stay out of school because they are afraid of just that.” In this video, host Suchin Pak, anchor of MTV News, examines the use of hateful words by students and the effects of such speech on other students. From poignant interviews with three students who have experienced hateful speech for religious preference, race and appearance, and sexual orientation, viewers are able to listen to these personal stories and see the effects of hateful words in the form of name calling and condescending comments. Dr. Timothy Jay, author of Cursing America, and Linda Lantieri, director of Resolving Conflict Creatively, provide professional comments to share their knowledge and understanding of hate speech and explain ways to effectively handle persons who engage in “hate speech.”

Camera views of the students as they describe their feelings along with appropriate accompanying music while the students talk allow the viewer a greater depth of feeling for the emotional damage of hurtful words. Especially important is the information shared that describes how the students are developing positive ways to overcome the negative effects of these experiences. Viewer discretion is advised as the film contains some objectionable language.

This video is important for education, psychology, and sociology programs. It can also provide good information to parents or parent-teacher association groups who are interested in this subject. In addition, it will be helpful for community organizations that work with groups of students.