There are many unique people with unique hobbies at Orem High School and throughout the world. One group in particular has caught the eyes of many, including mine. They are the Bronies, or the bros who like ponies.

For those who are unfamiliar, Bronies are men, ages ranging anywhere from early teens to well over 30, who watch and enjoy the show My Little Pony. These guys create art, writing, animation, and music inspired by the show, along with organizing conventions, donating to charity, and more.

“Wow that is really weird.” Aaron Leavitt said when hearing about them for the first time. Averee Clawson had a similar reaction. “I mean, it’s a great show and all, but Bronies are disgusting. I understand the boys that are ten that watch it. But ten’s the limit.”

However, not all perspectives on Bronies were negative. “I believe it’s not any different [from other fandoms],” stated Amanda Gurney. “They should be able to freak out about what they love.” Braden Pryor agreed when he heard about how some Bronies that were being persecuted harshly, and kids are being harassed in school. “It’s not right to treat others badly because of what they like.”

To those who thought Bronies were negative, I conducted blind listening to a song written by Gabriel Brown, who is a dedicated Brony. Known in the Brony fandom as “Black Gryph0n,” his Youtube name, Gabriel writes music and animates shorts that are related to the show. He is also a very talented singer. I shared his piece “Proud to Be a Bony” to several students, but one particular student had a very interesting reaction.

Averee Clawson’s eyes widened when he sang the title of the song as the chorus began. “Whoa, that suddenly changed!” Being a talented musician herself, especially on the piano which was played excellently in this piece, Averee was impressed. “Bronies being gross were all I have been hearing about them. I had no idea they were artists. Next time, I won’t be so judgmental. Thanks for sharing the light!”

There are even some Bronies here at Orem High. However, the few I found wished to be remain anonymous. “It sounds silly, but I am just worried that I will be judged because of watching My Little Pony. It’s lonely not being able to talk to many of my friends about it, but I really don’t want to get hurt over something I really love,” one Brony stated.

It is a sad truth that some of these people hide in fear people will judge them too quickly. Perhaps Orem High can learn to accept these and other unique groups, and make them feel a part of this school. I would like to see Orem High as a place where these people can be proud to be Bronies.

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Dempsey Emery

Dempsey Emery loves to write. Her dream is to become a well known, adored author. She also has interest in journalism, and had been writing stories and creating her own newspapers since age four. When not trying to improve her writing, she is caring for children or trying to make people smile.

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