[008] Tyler Clementi
Let me begin by saying that this entire mess is a tragedy and my condolences go out to the entire Clementi family.
I did not know Tyler personally, but I knew many of his friends in the music program. Tyler was a talented and kind young man with infinite potential and it is (to say the very least) sad that he was taken from the Earth by his own hand as such a young age. It is absolutely heartbreaking to think that this poor kid felt so awful, humiliated and hurt that he saw no other escape than death.
I hate the way the media is spinning everything. They are making Tyler out to be a martyr for gay rights. He did not jump off of the George Washington Bridge to make a statement about gay rights. He jumped because he was hurting inside and didn't know how to cope. While I think it's great that this is promoting tolerance, it makes me sick that they are making this young man out to be a political figurehead and spokesperson for a cause.
As a student at Rutgers University and an active member of BiGLARU (Bisexuals, Gays, Lesbians and Allies of Rutgers University) this tragedy upsets me deeply. A young man with infinite potential is now gone due to an awful "prank" pulled by two other students. In my eyes, this was hardly a "prank". Pranks are light-hearted, care-free, and hold no ill-intentions. THIS was an attack against a person. Do I believe that these students knew Tyler would commit suicide? No. Absolutely not. Do I think they should be held accountable for their actions? Absolutely.
I can say, however, that the memorial service held at Brower Commons was nothing less than powerful. The way that the Rutgers community has come together to support one another whether gay, straight, bisexual, transgendered, knew Tyler, didn't know Tyler, is just short of divine. I have never felt such a strong bond and closeness between such a vast community. It is unparalleled to anything else I have experienced.
It is my firm belief that Tyler was perfect in the eyes of whatever God or Goddess you choose to believe in. I only wish he knew that on this side.
RIP Tyler Clementi. May the afterlife be graced with the beautiful sounds of your violin and the shining radiance of your soul.