Millions of people were disappointed, angry even, when Donald Trump was elected President. But that is no reason for them to target or cyber bully his 11-year-old son, Barron Trump. Barron wasn’t elected President; his father was. This child didn’t ask for any of this. And yet, on Inauguration Day, “Barron Trump” trended on Twitter. Barron (then 10) was targeted for his appearance and social skills. "Saturday Night Live" writer Katie Rich even suggested that he “will be this country’s first homeschool shooter.” We are better than this. (Rich was suspended by SNL and later apologized.)
Barron continues to be scrutinized. Just the other day Ford Springer, a reporter for The Daily Caller, suggested that Barron’s attire for public appearances “isn’t normal.” I have an 11-year-old son myself. I can imagine his response to the suggestion that he, or his behavior, “isn’t normal.” If the article went viral? Well, we can all imagine how that might amplify his feelings. What’s worse? Springer was not alone in his criticism. We are better than this.
Former White House child Chelsea Clinton took to Twitter to defend Barron: "It's high time the media and everyone leave Barron Trump alone and let him have the private childhood he deserves.” I couldn’t agree more.
If there’s one thing we should all be able to agree on, regardless of party affiliation or our feelings about Donald Trump, it should be this: No adult should target or cyber bully a child. Let’s set an example for our own children. Be the change you wish to see in the world.