Gay is not wrong - gay is not right. Gay IS. And people should not be bullied to the point that they kill themselves. Who is next on the hit list? People with glasses? Overweight people? Short people? If it is not stopped, sooner or later everyone will be a target. Too bad that people do not have what it takes to turn things around and bully the bullies for a change.
Saw this video in school today and i wanted to comment, assuming gays are USUALLY non Christians or Atheist, and GENERALLY accept evolution, however how can it be that to them, a HIGHLY EVOLVED human is gay and cant comprehend natures most simple code of survival? Even 'less developed life forms" (other animals) can comprehend this issue while a human can't, fascinating, I have yet to see gay animals and if there is an incident please correct me. To all gays, you guys are low, sucks to be you.
@itsHUNGover there is 1500 or more animals on earth that have displayed homosexuality and bisexuality. I personally believe it is a form of population control. If you don't believe me google it.
@itsHUNGover Your assumption is incorrect, 'Highly evolved' means nothing, nature's 'code of survival' works on a species level not individual, and in fact there are animals (many) that have homosexual relationships and can in face pair bond with another of the same gender. And the only reason it might suck to be gay, is the stigma religion and bigotry puts on it.
I've seen bullying/hazing of youngsters by youngsters for no other reason than they're not with it, not cool, geeky.. So it is a problem that includes more than just gays. The USA has very high youth suicide rates, youth depression is off the chart..Like I've been saying on other youtube clips.. A great nation out to be a great nation to grow up in..-Not the other way around!! Great rant, Rick!! Keep it up!!
The reason for the suicide rate increasing is because people see everyone living the perfect life and being happy when there all just the same. So they then get deppresed like usual, and when your getting bullied on top of that it pushes it over the top. I know bullieng is bad and all but its not horrific like you see on t.v., its a phase, get over it
@Kangarilla9323 You have no idea what it's like to have 5 people waiting outside everyone of your classes to make fun of you take your bag and dump it on the floor or waiting in the change room to beat you up and video tape it you've it's easy for you to say get over it when you aren't the one who gets their shoes stolen outside in -40 weather sure sometimes it's just words but when you hear those words all day everyday it gets old fast.
@T3KWO I know it is cliche, and I would never say get over it, but what I can tell you for certain is that the kids who bully you hate themselves more than they hate you. High school is supposed to be one of the best times in your life, and yet for so many, it is shit. Pressure from family to succeed, pressure from peers to fit in, questions about who you are or how you are feeling - its a lot to deal with. And if you're an "outsider" then it's only worse.
@ricci0215 What I can tell you is that if you can make it through this bullshit now, you will get to a point where those kids won't matter. I'm almost 30 and the things that I thought would break me when I was younger don't matter now... Getting dumped, getting made fun of, getting in fights with friends and family... That all passes, and it really does get better.
@misspinkpunkykat anyone not in Christ is at risk to commit suicide because Satan loves to accuse people for anything, being gay, being a failure, etc. Accept Jesus and know His immense love. Jesus has the power against Satan and demons. Jesus saves people from suicide. People just need to let Christ in their lives.
@misspinkpunkykat Well I can't blame for that if it's some of the 'christians' I have known:( The truth is, some people genuinely love Jesus and love people. But others just like the image and are self-righteous hypocrites. But Jesus is all about Love and Truth. And he has said many words against religious jerks because what they do is so evil. see Matthew 23... bible gateway website
@BigMikeMcBastard For sure we do NOT want to be more like the religious hypocrisy of the US. But we really really really need Jesus Christ personally. Atheism isn't the answer. Religion-loving isn't the answer. But a genuine faith in Jesus Christ is the only good answer. He is the one who rescues people from stupidity, arrogance, depression, anger, and anxiety, oh and loads more. Without Him the world is done for.
@hearts12ish Atheism isn't a thing that presumes answers. Atheism is simply the absence of religious answers. Where a person takes it from there is their own prerogative.
Jesus does not rescue people. People rescue people. We do not need Jesus to oppose any of the things you've mentioned. We did those things just as well before Jesus and his myths rose from off the backs of other religions.
@BigMikeMcBastard Jesus is the ONLY person who can rescue people. Just look at the world! People aren't even able to stop themselves from killing themselves! People are in desperate need of HOPE, which is only found in a personal relationship with God. And people really need to know they are forgiven and have the chance to know unconditional love. People cannot love without expectation, but God can. Everyone looks for someone to be their personal saviour, but we all fall short. We NEED Jesus.
@hearts12ish If Jesus is the only person who can rescue people, then why do very Christian countries like the USA have far higher murder rates than very non-religious countries like Sweden or Norway?
The answer to all of our problems lies within our own capacity as humans to solve. The more time we waste praying or beseeching gods or unicorns or fairies to solve our problems for us, the further we get from the solution.
@BigMikeMcBastard The US is NOT a very christian country. Perhaps compared to Canada there is a higher proportion of people who call themselves christians but there is a lot of pretence. go on and forget Christ if you must run to hell, but don't drag others with you! And please never give up on your search for the truth.
Rick, your an awesome person. Your so loving, caring, and insanely funny. I am proud of the fact your are Canadian. You address issues that need to be addressed in both a serious, and, when necessary, you do it sarcasticly. Rick always get's the message across and does it for the greater good and to help educate people. If you run for Prime Minister, you got my vote.
Teaching children that matter turned itself into people, that life was never intended, that they have no soul, and death of the physical body means permanent unconsciousness, enables suicide. Matter isn't creative. Intelligence is, and consciousness is infinite energy.
Atheism is rejection of intelligence and a suicide enabler.
Absolutely well said! You're in Canada? Well the same thing applies to us here in the states as well we need more gay role models out in public life. Although it seems like our gays are even more pressured to be silent when they're public life (outside of Hollywood. We can be actors & singers all we want but God forbid we try to be policy makers and enforcers)
Stay A Live page on facebook, an anti suicide page, please search 'stay alive on facebook and like this page! thankyou.Stay A Live page on facebook, an anti suicide page, please search 'stay alive on facebook and like this page! thankyou.
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 Truly suicidal people by definition are already in a place of danger and most people don't help them. Instead they ridicule them, label them, avoid them like the plague. Why don't you learn to help?
@elbowbiter. Well by helping others they will be thanked, loved and accepted and they wont feel purpouseless anymore. It always feels good to help others, it helps you when they thank you and that they make you understand that you've done a good thing for them. After that they can feel better about themselves and be more confident and in the end they will lose the self hatred.Help and be Helped. Love and be Loved.
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 All this is true, but ask yourself how easy it is to help others when you are in a suicidal frame of mind. People that mentally ill don't feel the rewards of being appreciated very keenly. Chances are they may have jobs where they help people all the time but feel that they are not doing enough... or doubt that they have made a real difference. A lot of suicidal people just feel plain helpless... and wouldn't have the capacity to help others. Trust me it isn't a quick fix.
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 That's as may be. But being suicidal comes from mental illness by definition and so that takes away the rationality of decision making and judgement. Your point is a sound one, but to a suicidal person it may well be very difficult to actually see any of the benefits you list.
@wheelychris Yeah i know. Because their mental state is the following: Why would i help the others. I hate the others, they always make fun of me there's no way in hell that i would offer my help to these assholes, I just want to end this.
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 with respect - that's a huge genaralisation - speaking for myself - that was not my own mindset when suicidal - and I'm sure there are many other perspectives besides the two we've discussed...
Go on...become a Fireman,save lives, take risks but only risks that impact you or else that makes you a hazard for others and thats's no longer fair. You have nothing to lose and therefore nothing to fear. Volunteer for the riskiest missions. You're a tragic hero you might as well have fun with it
Idiots suicidals...self hatred is a gift. It enables one to go passed the flaws of normal individuals: egoism, fear, you put others before you. It makes you rare. It enables you to do things that no other individual would do because they would be too afraid for themselves. If you can't live for yourself, live for others. Imagine all the possibilities, you're pratically invincible because you're always in a win win situation. If you try and you succeed you win if you die trying you still win.
u don't have to be gay to be suicidal, u just have to be diffirent, even slightly, like me, i've had 1 attmpt that failed, sadly, and still people are on my back , people don't learn, they like to treat others like rash or disrespect them, and not just strangers family can be the worst.
I used to be a devout religious believer, but turned away from faith in LIES after my dear younger brother committed suicide 5yrs ago.
Getting our Priest to hold the funeral at all was hard enough- he kept preaching about self-killing being a mortal sin & that my bro would burn in hellfire for eternity. Half the family didn’t turn up as they were taught to believe the same crap, & some of those that did actually SPAT AT THE COFFIN, both in church & as it was lowered into the ground.
@SuperTruth77 That is a horrendous story and if it is true I am deeply saddened by your loss and violently disgusted by the behaviour of some of your familly and your horrible inhumane ex-religion.
@SuperTruth77 That's horrible man. I'm sorry. Our religion (Sikhism) never singles out a person because of a sin. As for burning in hell, that's absurd. Why does Christianity have so many ideologies that don't make sense. Now, I'm trying to offend or damage their reputation or anything, I love everyone, I went to a catholic high school, and there's is so much that has no answers. And answers that don't make sense. As for priest, why say that at a FUNERAL? That's like sermon, or Sunday Mass stuf
@FamineIsAwesome hey Faminels, unlike you most people care about the rest of society, and those who live in it, and losing a potential singer/doctor/poet/historian or whatever is not okay, especially at such a young age and over the idea that people like you are intolerant of whom they prefer. And Im pretty sure that Rick Mercer cares about Hubley more than most because Rick Mercer is gay as well you clown.
Are you a truth seeker? Search for "Truth Contest" in Google and click the 1st result, then click on "The Present" to open it. What it says will change and clarify your perception of life.
good to speak against suicide but how come no one is talking about the horrific suicide rates among Inuit people here in Canada? (11 times the national suicide rate overall, up to 28 times among 18-24 year old males) How can we make it better for them?
Is Rick Mercer gay?...oh darn, I have such a crush on him and I was just wondering the other day if he was married, cause if he's straight I've half a mind to seduce him...
People who bully and harrass others are cruel and mean, but not necessarily homophobic. I live in London, Ontario and there's an epidemic of homophobia in my opinion among the generation that was born in the '70's They don't hate gays or bully them...they are deep down in their soul terrified of being bullied and harrassed for either being gay even they aren't or liking a person who is gay. It's not hatred. It's a phobia. They need help. Not to be blamed for being the cause of what they fear.
@Bjroweable BULLSHIT! This isn't rooted in fear; it's rooted in hate! You might as well be saying "We're not racist, we're just afraid of being called n*****-lover for liking black kids, so we'll bully the hell out of them!" It doesn't help that a large number of schools in Durham region, among others, are so homophobic at the district level. People need to be held accountable for the culture they both belong to and promote.
@StellaEllaMaya ... I think we are in agreement but there's a fine point I'm failing to get across. Homophobia is a mental illness a great number of people suffer from to some degree. Phobics' withdraw themselves, avoiding any thought, mention, contact or conflict with the object of their fear. Gaybashers aren't homophobic. They are mean agitating shit disturbers who get off on ruining lives and making people cry. They are bullies.
@Bjroweable This is the problem with words like "transphobia" and "homophobia". They're not real phobias and therefore not "mental illnesses" any more than racism or sexism so no, "fear" is no excuse. "Homo/transphobia" are simply the words used to describe the kind of hate and discrimination against gender and sexual minorities for which people should be held accountable for. However, since people like you seem to be confused, I prefer the words "hetero/cissexism". --Equity Studies Major
I have mixed feelings about this because at no point in this call for action does Rick Mercer mention that he, a public figure, is also gay. He talks about all the people he knows are gay, but doesnt actually say: i am gay myself.
@namlohdrareg , its not that, i just think its weird he doesn't mention it here when hes specifically talking about it: i know plenty of public people who are gay, me included, wouldnt have been coming out, just a simple footnote to emphasize his point.
Well said, Rick. Me being born TG and having to hide it all my life was hard. I have a large suicide scar on my wrist. When i was growing up, times were different. When i was about 5, i started coming out and mom quickly started singing Hank Snow's Nobody's Child to me, saying to me, "Little boys who dress like girls go blind and go to the orphange where nobody wants them, not even family".She sat me on her lap, taught me the lyrics and made me sing it til i cried.This went on for years.
One of the problems with bullying in high school is that if you corner a bully and tell him "You better stop bullying others or else..." then you become a bully yourself. Actually, you may be able to become a law enforcement officer during adulthood. Sorry keed, but yes you may have a problem if you are a bully.
You know what's weird, his comment about "you can't be invisible", doesn't sound like he's "Encouraging" gays to 'come out', but rather that "with the availability of information on the internet, it's not easy for anyone to hide one's true social status.
I think that preventing bullying is everyone's responsibility. Having been bullied in elementary school and high school, I make sure that I don't condone it when I see it happening and take the steps I can to prevent it as well. Obviously there are some people that will have a greater impact or the ability influence a greater number of people but it is not only their responsibility. It is everyone's responsibility.
Thank you Rick for being blunt. I heard you on The Current and you are so right. This kind of behaviour in a workplace would be deemed criminal harassment but in a school it is a quick reprimand. Maybe the federal government take some of the energy they put into killing the gun registry and prosecuting people for smoking/growing marijuana and put it where the real problems are instead of appeasing voters!!
I don't think anyone took this as funny? I know Rick and he is very much being serious and trying in his best effort to bring this issue to light. If you disagree and believe there is a better more effective way to get this issue out there so perhaps the number of suicidal teens is less than 300 next year, please show us all the answer.
I love you, Rick!! You're a great Canadian!! So proud to say that, because you are a leader and have more an effect on the Cdn population than you realise...
This is a serious issue...bullying is the horrible pandemic of our time...
Well said, Rick. It's obviously not getting better for many gay kids within the Canadian school system. It's long past time for everyone to accept the fact that they are either an active part of the solution or they are part of the problem.
@realpianistcomposer ...it's his thing, he as a comedy show on t.v.. he does this during his 'rants' or what not.. a fantastic comic/social observer or what not.
being from Kanata, where Jamie lived, i have been told by a reliable source that one kid from his high school came to school gloating over teasing Jamie to the point he took his own life....
...said kid is now in hospital after a very very severe beating.
Schools work hard to reduce discrimination. When are parents going to be held accountable for the actions of their children? It bothers me when people blame schools for raising "bad" kids. Blame the parents.
@aeilenor Schools definitely aren't doing all they can. Speaking from experience of three bad schools where they did absolutely nothing about my tormentors. Yes, it is true. Parents need to teach their children to respect others no matter what and that is a huge part of it, but when it's not being reinforced at school the kids will learn that it's okay to torment and discriminate when their parents aren't around, and that's what's wrong.
@nerdsayswhat I disagree. Schools do not condone bullying. However, if parents raise their children properly, with good morals, they would not have to rely on school 'supervision' because the children would not torment other people in the first place.
@aeilenor then you clearly never have been bullied before at all.Principals do little, quick slap on the wrist and they go away. I've had people physically attack me and they didn't even get a detention!Yes, sure you're right about one thing, the parents need to actually parent but they can't be there all the time to say what's right and what's wrong.If what the morals the parents are putting on their younger kids aren't being reinforced at school then kids think they can get away with anything.
@aeilenor Notwithstanding parenting, children that are bullied are still entitled to protection under the law, like any adult. There is reluctance to call the police in some schools when in some instances, it is clearly necessary.
@daniel213141 I disagree. If it is "clearly necessary" then I'm sure it's done. What is clear to one person is not to someone else. Regardless, you assume that by calling the police, the child will all of a sudden stop bullying. I'm not so sure about that. And besides, that still does not hold the parents accountable for raising a child who persistently attacks (verball, physical, or otherwise) other people.
@aeilenor Let me be clear on this, parenting is a separate issue, I didn’t say it wasn’t issue. IF bullying is chronic and/or severe or an assault has taken place, the police should be called. As a police officer once told me, if in doubt, call the police. “...What is clear to one person is not to someone else....” Once again I said: “There is reluctance to call the police in SOME schools when in SOME instances, it is clearly necessary. “ I didn’t say it was always necessary or always clear.
Awesome rant! So glad someone who has a powerful voice in the adult audience is calling people to stand up for what's right.
For those who say "it should be a choice to come out", obviously I agree, but when the political population is "straight until proven gay", being honest about who you are is paramount. Especially when kids are struggling with bullies and need to know that their adult lives will be better.
Hit the nail on the head... Hopefully some more gay leaders in the community will take it upon themselves to serve as role models to our youth (kudos to RM for leading the charge). Also important to have a zero tolerance for bullying of any kind.
@Qtown20 No, suicide is not "the ultimate hypocritical gesture." It's the sign of serious mental ill health. If you feel like you have to puke, there is something wrong with your stomach. If you feel like you have to commit suicide, there is something very, very wrong with your mind.
And all too often, that "something wrong" is the result of intense psychological abuse.
@Qtown20 Really, Really! Come and work with me for a day. Come and see the pain these teens feel. Suicide is not an act nor a gesture but a serious issues that each one of us need to be concerned about, and take acation.
Totally agree with this rant. I'm not gay, but I know what it's like to be picked on to the point that you want to die. It's not fun and something pro-active has to be done.
Gay is not wrong - gay is not right. Gay IS. And people should not be bullied to the point that they kill themselves. Who is next on the hit list? People with glasses? Overweight people? Short people? If it is not stopped, sooner or later everyone will be a target. Too bad that people do not have what it takes to turn things around and bully the bullies for a change.
OneJoshFan 1 day ago
Don't blame religion. Gay is wrong. but our LORD loves them and wants them to get right.
scvbtr2 1 week ago
It makes me sick how people can just single out someone, this was a nicely done rant
MrJays212 1 week ago
Saw this video in school today and i wanted to comment, assuming gays are USUALLY non Christians or Atheist, and GENERALLY accept evolution, however how can it be that to them, a HIGHLY EVOLVED human is gay and cant comprehend natures most simple code of survival? Even 'less developed life forms" (other animals) can comprehend this issue while a human can't, fascinating, I have yet to see gay animals and if there is an incident please correct me. To all gays, you guys are low, sucks to be you.
itsHUNGover 2 weeks ago
@itsHUNGover BTW this is coming from a generally tolerant Christian looking at this from an evolutionist point of view not a religious one.
itsHUNGover 2 weeks ago
@itsHUNGover there is 1500 or more animals on earth that have displayed homosexuality and bisexuality. I personally believe it is a form of population control. If you don't believe me google it.
cutelittlegirlie 1 week ago
@itsHUNGover Your assumption is incorrect, 'Highly evolved' means nothing, nature's 'code of survival' works on a species level not individual, and in fact there are animals (many) that have homosexual relationships and can in face pair bond with another of the same gender. And the only reason it might suck to be gay, is the stigma religion and bigotry puts on it.
JaytheOstrich 1 week ago
We need to redefine DEMOCRACY
Hey Rick... A little help plz!
Mag4live 2 weeks ago
This is not a rant its a fact - why are people like Santurom grooming people to make some kids lives a missery ?
trevortrevortsr2 2 weeks ago
Thank you rick mercer
boomexploded 2 weeks ago
A kid in my school committed suicide this summer, and no one even noticed, teachers talked about it like it was no big deal, it's fucking sad.
0TheComplications 2 weeks ago
watch?v=EBp0jTO0NCE this kid is a michael jackson fan and he talks about suicide in his video .
TheCatdetective 3 weeks ago
I've seen bullying/hazing of youngsters by youngsters for no other reason than they're not with it, not cool, geeky.. So it is a problem that includes more than just gays. The USA has very high youth suicide rates, youth depression is off the chart..Like I've been saying on other youtube clips.. A great nation out to be a great nation to grow up in..-Not the other way around!! Great rant, Rick!! Keep it up!!
zuutlmna 1 month ago
The reason for the suicide rate increasing is because people see everyone living the perfect life and being happy when there all just the same. So they then get deppresed like usual, and when your getting bullied on top of that it pushes it over the top. I know bullieng is bad and all but its not horrific like you see on t.v., its a phase, get over it
Kangarilla9323 1 month ago
@Kangarilla9323 You have no idea what it's like to have 5 people waiting outside everyone of your classes to make fun of you take your bag and dump it on the floor or waiting in the change room to beat you up and video tape it you've it's easy for you to say get over it when you aren't the one who gets their shoes stolen outside in -40 weather sure sometimes it's just words but when you hear those words all day everyday it gets old fast.
T3KWO 1 month ago
@T3KWO I know it is cliche, and I would never say get over it, but what I can tell you for certain is that the kids who bully you hate themselves more than they hate you. High school is supposed to be one of the best times in your life, and yet for so many, it is shit. Pressure from family to succeed, pressure from peers to fit in, questions about who you are or how you are feeling - its a lot to deal with. And if you're an "outsider" then it's only worse.
ricci0215 1 month ago
@ricci0215 What I can tell you is that if you can make it through this bullshit now, you will get to a point where those kids won't matter. I'm almost 30 and the things that I thought would break me when I was younger don't matter now... Getting dumped, getting made fun of, getting in fights with friends and family... That all passes, and it really does get better.
ricci0215 1 month ago
It isn't just gay kids that are being bullied to death, it's also kids with autism and other disabilities that make them stand out.
misspinkpunkykat 1 month ago
@misspinkpunkykat anyone not in Christ is at risk to commit suicide because Satan loves to accuse people for anything, being gay, being a failure, etc. Accept Jesus and know His immense love. Jesus has the power against Satan and demons. Jesus saves people from suicide. People just need to let Christ in their lives.
hearts12ish 1 month ago
@hearts12ish I don't know. Most of the people who bullied me supposed were "Christians". Christians just leave a bad taste in my mouth.
misspinkpunkykat 1 month ago
@misspinkpunkykat Well I can't blame for that if it's some of the 'christians' I have known:( The truth is, some people genuinely love Jesus and love people. But others just like the image and are self-righteous hypocrites. But Jesus is all about Love and Truth. And he has said many words against religious jerks because what they do is so evil. see Matthew 23... bible gateway website
hearts12ish 1 month ago
@hearts12ish We need less religion in Canada, not more of it. We need to be more like Norway, not more like the United States.
BigMikeMcBastard 2 weeks ago 7
@BigMikeMcBastard For sure we do NOT want to be more like the religious hypocrisy of the US. But we really really really need Jesus Christ personally. Atheism isn't the answer. Religion-loving isn't the answer. But a genuine faith in Jesus Christ is the only good answer. He is the one who rescues people from stupidity, arrogance, depression, anger, and anxiety, oh and loads more. Without Him the world is done for.
hearts12ish 2 weeks ago
@hearts12ish Atheism isn't a thing that presumes answers. Atheism is simply the absence of religious answers. Where a person takes it from there is their own prerogative.
Jesus does not rescue people. People rescue people. We do not need Jesus to oppose any of the things you've mentioned. We did those things just as well before Jesus and his myths rose from off the backs of other religions.
BigMikeMcBastard 2 weeks ago
@BigMikeMcBastard Jesus is the ONLY person who can rescue people. Just look at the world! People aren't even able to stop themselves from killing themselves! People are in desperate need of HOPE, which is only found in a personal relationship with God. And people really need to know they are forgiven and have the chance to know unconditional love. People cannot love without expectation, but God can. Everyone looks for someone to be their personal saviour, but we all fall short. We NEED Jesus.
hearts12ish 2 weeks ago
@hearts12ish If Jesus is the only person who can rescue people, then why do very Christian countries like the USA have far higher murder rates than very non-religious countries like Sweden or Norway?
The answer to all of our problems lies within our own capacity as humans to solve. The more time we waste praying or beseeching gods or unicorns or fairies to solve our problems for us, the further we get from the solution.
BigMikeMcBastard 2 weeks ago
@BigMikeMcBastard The US is NOT a very christian country. Perhaps compared to Canada there is a higher proportion of people who call themselves christians but there is a lot of pretence. go on and forget Christ if you must run to hell, but don't drag others with you! And please never give up on your search for the truth.
hearts12ish 2 weeks ago
@BigMikeMcBastard No worries bro. Canada is Growing atheisticly. To bad my 2 cousins are christians, they are uneducated in Science.
I grew out of religion when I was 13, probably because I am educated in Science.
I am the evidence of this change :D
DoNotLaughAtMe 1 week ago
I am a young gay canadian. And ya know what, you just summed up what everyone else was thinking. way to go
woonawoona 2 months ago 2
straight up !!!!
snowhyte29 2 months ago
r.i.p. james.good job rick, finally the truth comes out from someone
spencerhf4 2 months ago
WELL SAID!!!!!
jenalexander88 2 months ago
Rick, your an awesome person. Your so loving, caring, and insanely funny. I am proud of the fact your are Canadian. You address issues that need to be addressed in both a serious, and, when necessary, you do it sarcasticly. Rick always get's the message across and does it for the greater good and to help educate people. If you run for Prime Minister, you got my vote.
TheEstowrath 3 months ago
Teaching children that matter turned itself into people, that life was never intended, that they have no soul, and death of the physical body means permanent unconsciousness, enables suicide. Matter isn't creative. Intelligence is, and consciousness is infinite energy.
Atheism is rejection of intelligence and a suicide enabler.
lughcious 3 months ago
Absolutely well said! You're in Canada? Well the same thing applies to us here in the states as well we need more gay role models out in public life. Although it seems like our gays are even more pressured to be silent when they're public life (outside of Hollywood. We can be actors & singers all we want but God forbid we try to be policy makers and enforcers)
lordseshomaru86 3 months ago
There are grown ups and kids hurting and helping all over the place.
Read some powerful words and responses from Single Dad Laughing
Shame Jamie and the kids who hurt him never read this....but you can!
You can find the link at Single Dad Laughing on Facebook called I'm Christian, unless you're gay' (YT wont let me send the link)
tracyinkits1 3 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Stay A Live page on facebook, an anti suicide page, please search 'stay alive on facebook and like this page! thankyou.Stay A Live page on facebook, an anti suicide page, please search 'stay alive on facebook and like this page! thankyou.
10Benlane 3 months ago
most people dont intervene when others are in danger because they fear for their own safety. well Suicidal people now's your chance.
94xxxBehemothxxx94 3 months ago
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 Truly suicidal people by definition are already in a place of danger and most people don't help them. Instead they ridicule them, label them, avoid them like the plague. Why don't you learn to help?
elbowbiter1 3 months ago
@elbowbiter. Well by helping others they will be thanked, loved and accepted and they wont feel purpouseless anymore. It always feels good to help others, it helps you when they thank you and that they make you understand that you've done a good thing for them. After that they can feel better about themselves and be more confident and in the end they will lose the self hatred.Help and be Helped. Love and be Loved.
94xxxBehemothxxx94 3 months ago
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 All this is true, but ask yourself how easy it is to help others when you are in a suicidal frame of mind. People that mentally ill don't feel the rewards of being appreciated very keenly. Chances are they may have jobs where they help people all the time but feel that they are not doing enough... or doubt that they have made a real difference. A lot of suicidal people just feel plain helpless... and wouldn't have the capacity to help others. Trust me it isn't a quick fix.
elbowbiter1 3 months ago
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 That's as may be. But being suicidal comes from mental illness by definition and so that takes away the rationality of decision making and judgement. Your point is a sound one, but to a suicidal person it may well be very difficult to actually see any of the benefits you list.
wheelychris 3 months ago
@wheelychris Yeah i know. Because their mental state is the following: Why would i help the others. I hate the others, they always make fun of me there's no way in hell that i would offer my help to these assholes, I just want to end this.
94xxxBehemothxxx94 3 months ago
@94xxxBehemothxxx94 with respect - that's a huge genaralisation - speaking for myself - that was not my own mindset when suicidal - and I'm sure there are many other perspectives besides the two we've discussed...
wheelychris 3 months ago
Go on...become a Fireman,save lives, take risks but only risks that impact you or else that makes you a hazard for others and thats's no longer fair. You have nothing to lose and therefore nothing to fear. Volunteer for the riskiest missions. You're a tragic hero you might as well have fun with it
94xxxBehemothxxx94 3 months ago
Idiots suicidals...self hatred is a gift. It enables one to go passed the flaws of normal individuals: egoism, fear, you put others before you. It makes you rare. It enables you to do things that no other individual would do because they would be too afraid for themselves. If you can't live for yourself, live for others. Imagine all the possibilities, you're pratically invincible because you're always in a win win situation. If you try and you succeed you win if you die trying you still win.
94xxxBehemothxxx94 3 months ago
Forget suicide, let's talk about awesome graffiti.
JonasPolsky 3 months ago
u don't have to be gay to be suicidal, u just have to be diffirent, even slightly, like me, i've had 1 attmpt that failed, sadly, and still people are on my back , people don't learn, they like to treat others like rash or disrespect them, and not just strangers family can be the worst.
Chikarishu 3 months ago
its 500 kids in ireland
LotsaCreations 3 months ago
I used to be a devout religious believer, but turned away from faith in LIES after my dear younger brother committed suicide 5yrs ago.
Getting our Priest to hold the funeral at all was hard enough- he kept preaching about self-killing being a mortal sin & that my bro would burn in hellfire for eternity. Half the family didn’t turn up as they were taught to believe the same crap, & some of those that did actually SPAT AT THE COFFIN, both in church & as it was lowered into the ground.
SuperTruth77 3 months ago 14
@SuperTruth77 WOW, That's fucked up. Sorry for your loss :(.
yofila 3 months ago
@SuperTruth77 That is a horrendous story and if it is true I am deeply saddened by your loss and violently disgusted by the behaviour of some of your familly and your horrible inhumane ex-religion.
elbowbiter1 3 months ago
@SuperTruth77 It seems like your becoming an individual with their own perception. Not some sheep follower.
DoNotLaughAtMe 1 week ago
@SuperTruth77 That's horrible man. I'm sorry. Our religion (Sikhism) never singles out a person because of a sin. As for burning in hell, that's absurd. Why does Christianity have so many ideologies that don't make sense. Now, I'm trying to offend or damage their reputation or anything, I love everyone, I went to a catholic high school, and there's is so much that has no answers. And answers that don't make sense. As for priest, why say that at a FUNERAL? That's like sermon, or Sunday Mass stuf
AndyGrewalMusic 1 week ago
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"Eyes Upon Waking" the feature film deals with suicide and depression
eyesuponwaking (dot) com
jesenterprises 3 months ago
@FamineIsAwesome hey Faminels, unlike you most people care about the rest of society, and those who live in it, and losing a potential singer/doctor/poet/historian or whatever is not okay, especially at such a young age and over the idea that people like you are intolerant of whom they prefer. And Im pretty sure that Rick Mercer cares about Hubley more than most because Rick Mercer is gay as well you clown.
MarcKoster93 3 months ago
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Are you a truth seeker? Search for "Truth Contest" in Google and click the 1st result, then click on "The Present" to open it. What it says will change and clarify your perception of life.
77Listen 3 months ago
good to speak against suicide but how come no one is talking about the horrific suicide rates among Inuit people here in Canada? (11 times the national suicide rate overall, up to 28 times among 18-24 year old males) How can we make it better for them?
dorpism 3 months ago
I completely agree. This is not acceptable. I may be only 16, but I try to be a role model for my younger friends. They all know that I'm pansexual.
PrideXentric 3 months ago
So why didn't you come out?
daavq 4 months ago
Is Rick Mercer gay?...oh darn, I have such a crush on him and I was just wondering the other day if he was married, cause if he's straight I've half a mind to seduce him...
Bjroweable 4 months ago
@Bjroweable Apparently, yes, Rick's gay.
creamaster 4 months ago
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Carry so much love in your heart that it will crush any hate that comes your way.
TrippinLikeTrish 4 months ago
People who bully and harrass others are cruel and mean, but not necessarily homophobic. I live in London, Ontario and there's an epidemic of homophobia in my opinion among the generation that was born in the '70's They don't hate gays or bully them...they are deep down in their soul terrified of being bullied and harrassed for either being gay even they aren't or liking a person who is gay. It's not hatred. It's a phobia. They need help. Not to be blamed for being the cause of what they fear.
Bjroweable 4 months ago
@Bjroweable BULLSHIT! This isn't rooted in fear; it's rooted in hate! You might as well be saying "We're not racist, we're just afraid of being called n*****-lover for liking black kids, so we'll bully the hell out of them!" It doesn't help that a large number of schools in Durham region, among others, are so homophobic at the district level. People need to be held accountable for the culture they both belong to and promote.
StellaEllaMaya 4 months ago
@StellaEllaMaya ... I think we are in agreement but there's a fine point I'm failing to get across. Homophobia is a mental illness a great number of people suffer from to some degree. Phobics' withdraw themselves, avoiding any thought, mention, contact or conflict with the object of their fear. Gaybashers aren't homophobic. They are mean agitating shit disturbers who get off on ruining lives and making people cry. They are bullies.
Bjroweable 4 months ago
@Bjroweable This is the problem with words like "transphobia" and "homophobia". They're not real phobias and therefore not "mental illnesses" any more than racism or sexism so no, "fear" is no excuse. "Homo/transphobia" are simply the words used to describe the kind of hate and discrimination against gender and sexual minorities for which people should be held accountable for. However, since people like you seem to be confused, I prefer the words "hetero/cissexism". --Equity Studies Major
StellaEllaMaya 4 months ago
Unfortunately bullying will never cease to exist. Ever.
keattross 4 months ago
I have mixed feelings about this because at no point in this call for action does Rick Mercer mention that he, a public figure, is also gay. He talks about all the people he knows are gay, but doesnt actually say: i am gay myself.
bizarre.
horganjames 4 months ago
@horganjames - to quote Rick Mercer - 'how many times do I have to come out?'
namlohdrareg 4 months ago
@namlohdrareg , its not that, i just think its weird he doesn't mention it here when hes specifically talking about it: i know plenty of public people who are gay, me included, wouldnt have been coming out, just a simple footnote to emphasize his point.
horganjames 4 months ago
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horganjames 4 months ago
Well said, Rick. Me being born TG and having to hide it all my life was hard. I have a large suicide scar on my wrist. When i was growing up, times were different. When i was about 5, i started coming out and mom quickly started singing Hank Snow's Nobody's Child to me, saying to me, "Little boys who dress like girls go blind and go to the orphange where nobody wants them, not even family".She sat me on her lap, taught me the lyrics and made me sing it til i cried.This went on for years.
da6is9 4 months ago
One of the problems with bullying in high school is that if you corner a bully and tell him "You better stop bullying others or else..." then you become a bully yourself. Actually, you may be able to become a law enforcement officer during adulthood. Sorry keed, but yes you may have a problem if you are a bully.
FrenchFrog1967 4 months ago
You know what's weird, his comment about "you can't be invisible", doesn't sound like he's "Encouraging" gays to 'come out', but rather that "with the availability of information on the internet, it's not easy for anyone to hide one's true social status.
FrenchFrog1967 4 months ago
Thank you Mr. Mercer.
zzzut 4 months ago
I think that preventing bullying is everyone's responsibility. Having been bullied in elementary school and high school, I make sure that I don't condone it when I see it happening and take the steps I can to prevent it as well. Obviously there are some people that will have a greater impact or the ability influence a greater number of people but it is not only their responsibility. It is everyone's responsibility.
graemecow01 4 months ago
I dizzy
Fantasticalisms 4 months ago
Great rant Rick, I suppose. Rumor has it that you are openly gay, so why wouldn't you mention it in this of all pieces if it is true and public?
Gladman 4 months ago
@Gladman Rick's show is about political satire not about his sexuality.
TheNannySkexis 4 months ago
@Gladman He came out years ago and there's no reason for him to mention it. It's not part of the point he's making.
oldirtybrza 4 months ago
What percentage of the annual 300 kid suicides are due to bullying?
gigantibyte 4 months ago
@gigantibyte too many
TheNannySkexis 4 months ago
Thank you Rick for being blunt. I heard you on The Current and you are so right. This kind of behaviour in a workplace would be deemed criminal harassment but in a school it is a quick reprimand. Maybe the federal government take some of the energy they put into killing the gun registry and prosecuting people for smoking/growing marijuana and put it where the real problems are instead of appeasing voters!!
cliflejeune 4 months ago 12
Not funny Rick.
Alexplus20 4 months ago
@Alexplus20
Hi,
I don't think anyone took this as funny? I know Rick and he is very much being serious and trying in his best effort to bring this issue to light. If you disagree and believe there is a better more effective way to get this issue out there so perhaps the number of suicidal teens is less than 300 next year, please show us all the answer.
Take Care and safe holidays
Chris
jlhwtp1 4 months ago
@Alexplus20 he's not tryna be funny...stupid....O_O
imnoobish 4 months ago
I love you, Rick!! You're a great Canadian!! So proud to say that, because you are a leader and have more an effect on the Cdn population than you realise...
This is a serious issue...bullying is the horrible pandemic of our time...
71CANADIAN 4 months ago 24
YES! Thank you Rick!
MsPirateswench 4 months ago
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BlasphemousPriest 4 months ago
Just 300? That seems low.
AveragePope 4 months ago
its not just kids who are gay who are bullyed
keysersose1962 4 months ago
Well said, Rick. It's obviously not getting better for many gay kids within the Canadian school system. It's long past time for everyone to accept the fact that they are either an active part of the solution or they are part of the problem.
Canadiann001 4 months ago
we need a rapper to be openly bi or gay !
baakkeerr 4 months ago
Why is he walking around?
realpianistcomposer 4 months ago
@realpianistcomposer ...it's his thing, he as a comedy show on t.v.. he does this during his 'rants' or what not.. a fantastic comic/social observer or what not.
Lixaable 4 months ago
Thank You Rick For Helping Gay Youth <3 As A Gay Comedian You Are Really Reaching Many People And I Applaud You!
icanbewhatiwanttobe 4 months ago
I total agree well said rick
fallbread 4 months ago
being from Kanata, where Jamie lived, i have been told by a reliable source that one kid from his high school came to school gloating over teasing Jamie to the point he took his own life....
...said kid is now in hospital after a very very severe beating.
fairbairn613 4 months ago 2
Schools work hard to reduce discrimination. When are parents going to be held accountable for the actions of their children? It bothers me when people blame schools for raising "bad" kids. Blame the parents.
aeilenor 4 months ago 2
@aeilenor Schools definitely aren't doing all they can. Speaking from experience of three bad schools where they did absolutely nothing about my tormentors. Yes, it is true. Parents need to teach their children to respect others no matter what and that is a huge part of it, but when it's not being reinforced at school the kids will learn that it's okay to torment and discriminate when their parents aren't around, and that's what's wrong.
nerdsayswhat 4 months ago
@nerdsayswhat I disagree. Schools do not condone bullying. However, if parents raise their children properly, with good morals, they would not have to rely on school 'supervision' because the children would not torment other people in the first place.
aeilenor 4 months ago
@aeilenor then you clearly never have been bullied before at all.Principals do little, quick slap on the wrist and they go away. I've had people physically attack me and they didn't even get a detention!Yes, sure you're right about one thing, the parents need to actually parent but they can't be there all the time to say what's right and what's wrong.If what the morals the parents are putting on their younger kids aren't being reinforced at school then kids think they can get away with anything.
nerdsayswhat 4 months ago
@aeilenor Notwithstanding parenting, children that are bullied are still entitled to protection under the law, like any adult. There is reluctance to call the police in some schools when in some instances, it is clearly necessary.
daniel213141 3 months ago
@daniel213141 I disagree. If it is "clearly necessary" then I'm sure it's done. What is clear to one person is not to someone else. Regardless, you assume that by calling the police, the child will all of a sudden stop bullying. I'm not so sure about that. And besides, that still does not hold the parents accountable for raising a child who persistently attacks (verball, physical, or otherwise) other people.
aeilenor 3 months ago
@aeilenor Let me be clear on this, parenting is a separate issue, I didn’t say it wasn’t issue. IF bullying is chronic and/or severe or an assault has taken place, the police should be called. As a police officer once told me, if in doubt, call the police. “...What is clear to one person is not to someone else....” Once again I said: “There is reluctance to call the police in SOME schools when in SOME instances, it is clearly necessary. “ I didn’t say it was always necessary or always clear.
daniel213141 3 months ago
Well done, Rick... :)
TemptedMusic 4 months ago 2
Awesome rant! So glad someone who has a powerful voice in the adult audience is calling people to stand up for what's right.
For those who say "it should be a choice to come out", obviously I agree, but when the political population is "straight until proven gay", being honest about who you are is paramount. Especially when kids are struggling with bullies and need to know that their adult lives will be better.
brianbrianmid 4 months ago 32
Hit the nail on the head... Hopefully some more gay leaders in the community will take it upon themselves to serve as role models to our youth (kudos to RM for leading the charge). Also important to have a zero tolerance for bullying of any kind.
taugustus78 4 months ago 3
Preach, Rick.
Hadogei123456789 4 months ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I'm not condoning bullying in any form here, but to resort to suicide is the ultimate hypocritical gesture. Just saying.
Qtown20 4 months ago
@Qtown20 No, suicide is not "the ultimate hypocritical gesture." It's the sign of serious mental ill health. If you feel like you have to puke, there is something wrong with your stomach. If you feel like you have to commit suicide, there is something very, very wrong with your mind.
And all too often, that "something wrong" is the result of intense psychological abuse.
davetoms1 4 months ago
@Qtown20 Really, Really! Come and work with me for a day. Come and see the pain these teens feel. Suicide is not an act nor a gesture but a serious issues that each one of us need to be concerned about, and take acation.
rparkesW 4 months ago
I hope those who are bullies have a hard time sleeping.
manwello15 4 months ago 4
he is pacing back and forth with graffiti in the background... this guy is in touch with the street, man!
Fuzzy192006 4 months ago 3
Well done Mr. Mercer.
PelleyPelley 4 months ago 3
I complete agree, we need to be proactive and Crush homophobia in the schools, not tomorrow, not next week , NOW!!!!
gooders1002 4 months ago 34
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These rants should have their own YouTube channel.
erocicTheGreat 4 months ago
Totally agree with this rant. I'm not gay, but I know what it's like to be picked on to the point that you want to die. It's not fun and something pro-active has to be done.
Deadmansparty2002 4 months ago