Film raises debate about bullying in West Dorset
Local community group Autonomy Films will be showing North Country, a film about workplace bullying, in Bridport on Sunday January 15.
North Country (15) is a US-made film that is based on a true story about sexual harassment in the workplace, but the group hopes it will raise a constructive debate about how to tackle the wider problem of bullying in Dorset.
A recent survey indicates that 26% of Dorset school pupils have experienced bullying. In December a report highlighted the extent of domestic violence even among the elderly in the UK. In the workplace, bullying has reached epidemic proportions nationally, with court cases prompting compensation payments of up to £1m in the last few years. Many cases end not in court but in school refusal, sick leave, depression and even suicide.
Bullies often emerge in school, and grow into an adult culture that routinely picks on women, gays, non-white people and those who have disabilities or are ‘outsiders’ in any way.
North Country tells the story of Josie (Charlize Theron), who flees a violent marriage and returns to her home town in North Minnesota where she takes what is seen as a ‘man’s job’ in an opencast mine. She and her female colleagues suffer routine harassment, and the intimidation gets worse when she stands up to it. The true story behind the film finally led to a landmark law suit and the first US legislation against sexual harassment.
The film looks at the issues raised by bullying and shows that sometimes justice can be won.
North Country will be shown at the St John’s Ambulance Hall, Rax Lane, Bridport, on Sunday January 15 (7pm for 7.30 start). Entrance is £3 (less if you cannot afford it) and there will be refreshments and a debate.
