Central Valley Mayor Tells Bullying Victims They Need To "Grow A Pair"
PORTERVILLE, Tulare County (AP) -- A Central California mayor's remarks that bullying victims should toughen up and defend themselves has sparked anger among some city officials and gay rights advocates.
At a recent City Council meeting, Porterville Mayor Cameron Hamilton said he opposes bullying, but thinks it is too often blamed for problems. Hamilton said some people need to "grow a pair."
The mayor was responding to a student program proposing safe zones around town where children could seek refuge from bullies. Porterville is a community of 55,000 residents 70 miles southeast of Fresno.
Councilwoman Virginia Gurrola backs the safe zones and told the mayor it's difficult for a 10-year-old girl to do what he called for.
Melissa McMurrey of the group, Gay Porterville, tells KFSN-TV she felt attacked by the mayor's comments. She says bullies often target young gay people.
© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.