User blog:Natalie Renderra/Bullying in our Community

Bullying is something that most communities have, but no community should tolerate. Sadly, as many of us have noticed, some of it is going on in our own little World 42, especially towards new members who are still deciding on whether or not to join. I'm hoping, with this blog, to bring it to our attention so that we can take notice and discuss the issue openly.

I've come across a few examples in the past few months that stood out. I spoke to a new player who had her character assaulted and killed by city soldiers for OOC reasons. I saw her later on forums trying to explain that she was new and willing to learn, only to be trolled by some of the same people who had harrassed her before, attempting to dehumanize her before the forums, to make themselves look in the right.

She isn't alone either. Many others are being harrassed within our community, based on race, religion, sexuality, and gender.

I've heard of some players criticizing my main character, Nathan, for being Transgendered. I've heard people criticize me for playing a transgendered character. Both behind my back, and when I'm about, derogatory phrases such as "Faggot" or "Tranny" are passed around the Falador chat, among other colourful language painting a rather grim picture of the future.

A few players in our community are Jewish. One I know was so subjected to harrassment due to his faith, it led to harrassment in general, turning him moderately bitter, reclusive, and not as fond of the community as he had once been. He still roleplays, however. Just not as often as he would without this hatred towards him for his faith.

Another in the community is of Middle-Eastern Descent. Due to the simple fact the player is of this race, said roleplayer was harrassed out of clans, and out of the community at points. The Roleplayer always returns, but it doesn't change the simple fact it is racial criticism, something that many in this community do not understand.

...So, we, as a community, need to start cracking down on people harrassing fellow players, especially new ones. It removes potential additions to the community, which is shrinking with the rest of Runescape. Or just members of the community in general.

Does anyone else note bullying in our community?

How should we try to stop it?

How do you react to seeing players harrassed? How do you think others should react?