Airdrie youth show courage

We are continually impressed by Airdrie’s youth.

In this edition of the Airdrie City View, two teenagers come forward to speak out about controversial subjects and share their stories of bullying and coming out to friends and family. (See pages 5 and 34).

The courage of these young people is astounding. To come forward publicly and speak about topics that are often seen as “private” or even “taboo” is respectable and incredibly brave.

Bringing these issues to the forefront and getting the community talking about them can only have positive results.

Makenzie Murphy’s decision to come forward and speak about being bullied for the past five years has caught the attention of City council and municipal staff are now looking into the possibility of implementing an anti-bullying bylaw.

There is no way to know how many people Jonathon Barrett will help by sharing his struggle with coming out to his family and friends.

Bringing attention to the Boys and Girls Club program Outside the Box that provides a supportive environment to youth who are questioning their sexuality, opens up conversations in the community and lets other youth know they are not alone.

We commend these young people for their astounding courage.