Leia Pierce was devastated when she found out that her 9-year old son, James Myles had taken his own life last week. The boy had recently come out as gay to his mother and had also only started the fourth grade in Colorado, USA. His mother believes that bullying was a factor to his son’s suicide as she told CNN, "The same kids who picked on him last year were even meaner to him once he came out and said he was gay”.
Several prominent celebrities including those of the LGBT community have paid tribute to the boy. Actress Ellen Page, singers Kehlani, Hayley Kiyoko, and many others have made public statements mourning the loss of James Myles and condemning the act of bullying especially against the LGBT. Read the tweets below.
This BREAKS MY HEART. People need to understand the power of their words. Wow. I’m so sorry for him and his family. https://t.co/YTvQMPgsfB
— Hayley Kiyoko (@HayleyKiyoko) August 28, 2018
jamel myles’ confidence, pride, and eagerness to share his new found freedom with his parents and then classmates at 9 years old is beautiful and hope that is the memory celebrated continuously. rest in peace little warrior.
— Kehlani (@Kehlani) August 28, 2018
the lessons here are clear.
So sad to hear this story- gay and trans kids you are perfect little souls don’t let anyone say otherwise #JamelMyles
— Hercules Love Affair (@HerculesLA) August 27, 2018
The news re #JamelMyles broke my heart.I have traveled around the country & the world & have been witness 2 hope & joy but also deep pain & horror.This needs to change.I’m sad & angry but trying 2 keep my heart warm & open 2 continue 2 strive 2 help eradicate this suffering. ❤️
— Ellen Page (@EllenPage) August 28, 2018
#JamelMyles just killing himself at 9 years old after being bullied for coming out is all the proof you need that our fight against prejudice is as important today as ever! If ANY of you need someone to talk to call @TrevorProject 1-866-488-7386
— Daniel Newmaη (@DanielNewman) August 28, 2018
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. #LGBTQ https://t.co/qFa0UOKsYR
This has to stop happening. It just must stop. Our bullying culture is killing children. #JamelMyles
— Laverne Cox (@Lavernecox) August 28, 2018
"A 9-year-old boy died by suicide after being bullied for coming out as gay" https://t.co/BlrS7BqBxK
According to a study in 2016, kids under 12 who died by suicide were more likely to be diagnosed with major mental health issues when they grow up. The study also says that these kids were also more likely to form attention-deficit disorder and are more susceptible to impulsively respond to their own problems. Although medical professionals think that suicide is a teenage problem, they said it can also happen to Elementary School-aged children.