Written by Shane Smith, Editor, Stonewall Gazette


A High School teacher in North Carolina was suspended after showing the anti-bullying film, Love is All You Need? to her class (watch video below). It's the story of young teen girl, Ashley, who lives in a world where homosexuality is the norm. Ashley has a secret, however.

Ashley is heterosexual. The film depicts her being bullied so relentlessly that she takes her own life. It's heartbreaking to watch but very true to life. Sad to say some parents were upset and complained, which led to teacher Kimberly Fernetti being suspended. She has since returned to work.

Director, K.Rocco Shields, had this to say about the film: "Teen bullying and teen suicide based on someone's sexual preference is ridiculous - and this film turns the tables on modern society. What IF the shoe was on the other foot?"

Speaking to local media one student voiced his support for the film: "I think it's a great message to get out in the school. I personally have dealt with bullying, so I think it’s good to get the point across that 'Hey, it's not OK to pick on somebody." A family member of another student agreed, saying, "I don’t think it was vulgar or anything. I think it's better to be aware and to know the possibility of what kids' actions could do."

As a victim of abuse myself, I found it very challenging to watch Love is All You Need? I do, however, believe that it is an important film with an extremely relevant message for both parents and children. It needs to be shown as much as possible to continue the conversation about the damage that bullying does to all of us in the LGBTQ community.

Watch the film and please share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Film Credits:
Ashley: Lexi DiBenedetto
Written by David Tillman and K.Rocco Shields
Directed by K.Rocco Shields
Visit official site Love is All You Need?

WATCH VIDEO: Love is All You Need?