Can We Say Goodbye to Bullying?

by David Silverman

My name is David Silverman. I am 24 years old, love math, music, and "socializing", and I am also on the Autistic Spectrum. I try not to let this diagnosis define me, but the truth is that I often have difficulty picking up on social cues. This disability has caused me to unknowingly cross the line by annoying and insulting people. It has also made me more vulnerable to being an easy victim for bullies.

Bullying did not seem to be a problem until high school and the start of community college. I went from being with students in my grade, who knew me, to a new community who were unfamiliar with my differences. I was thrilled when the new students would talk to me and include me, but had no understanding that they were actually harassing and mocking me. They would tell me to make inappropriate remarks then they would record it, and post it on social media. Sometimes they would report me to the administration. I kept insisting they were my friends. After all, they talked to me, included me on social media, and called me (even if they said "wrong number" and hung up). 

Bullying for someone in the Spectrum is especially devastating. I am an easy target since my social and communication skills are still developing. I do not recognize the social cues, so I generally will not report the problem until things get out of control.

What I want everyone to understand is that bullying affects my entire family. My parents and siblings are also the victims. I know they feel my pain and I want to do everything possible to protect and help.

What can we all do to stop bullying? Parents and teachers, please remind your kids and students that since we are all created in the image of G-d, we are all equals. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. Neurotypical young adults are my role  models for behavior. We don't all have to be friends, but we have to be kind. Everyday should be Disability Awareness Day!

Please see my song, "Goodbye Bullies" in concert and in my new video:

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David is studying Music Recording and Production at Montclair State University, where his experience has been nothing but positive and the professors and support staff have been wonderful. David is learning how to advocate for himself and has been using his songwriting skills to teach others. David would like to thank his sister Aliza, for introducing him to the world of Jewish song leading, his twin brother, Jonathan for starting him on guitar, Shubey and Sassy for their companionship, and his parents for their constant nagging. Special shoutout to Jewish Rock Radio for allowing David to participate in their mentorship program.