Bullying is a big current topic in school and has been for some time. We’ve seen horrific, violent examples of what can happen when we don’t recognize or address behaviors and the cultures that spawn them. I noticed recently that businesses are getting in on the act, using their brand platforms to bring attention or call for action. For each business it’s hard to know what the mix of altruism and good marketing position/brand building is, but I’m glad to see the issue getting some focus that way.
My friend and fellow Kennedy Center teaching artist Karen Erickson has developed a drama workshop based on confronting bullying. She and I have had several conversations on the topic over the last couple of years, and we have a long range idea about combining our efforts in this way. One of the things I’ve learned from Karen is the importance of helping those who intervene in bullying to see such actions as heroic. Her work is in part like practicing a script that will hopefully manifest in the real situation.
This song is on example of building a script, or, in this case, a stage direction. I have mixed feelings about preachy songs, but I think there’s a place for songs that affirm something true or desired, like I hope this song does.
Marlo Castillo of the Kennedy Center sent me an article with pictures of students holding signs. One of those signs said “I Will Not Watch My Friend Get Hurt.” There were others, but that one touched me and out came this song.
I see it as a zipper song, where kids can add other things they promise to do or not do, as long as ideas are heartfelt and not prescribed or expected.
Bullying is a large topic, and I’ll add to the conversation again. For now. a song.
I Will Not Watch My Friend Get Hurt
I will not watch my friend get hurt
My friend get hurt, my friend get hurt
I will not watch my friend get hurt
I won’t stand by.
And I will say something
And I will be kind.
And I will say something
And I won’t back down.
Hi Stuart,
You and I seem to be often on the same page without knowing it! I’m working with three other guys who are improv theater geniuses, putting together a program called “Somebody’s Hero” about the heroic actions kids can take to counter bullying behaviors. I like your song – it’s simple, direct, beautiful, and expresses a quiet determination that’s very powerful. I wrote a song for my program, too – I’d be happy to share it with you if you’re interested.