Life can be tough for a little girl who is a Star Wars fan. Layla Murphy seemed to grow fond of a galaxy far, far away after finding her father’s old toys and learning more about the series, something that’s sort of a shared experience among fans of the series (hello, mid-90s VHS release). According to CNN, Murphy fell in love with the series and added plenty of merchandise to her life, including some choice clothing choices.
But then she ran into the kids at school and into one of the cruel realities of childhood:
“At this new school Layla started coming home more quiet and less of herself, and started asking not to wear her shirts or R2-D2 jacket,” Molina said.
The girls in school were telling her she shouldn’t like “Star Wars” because it’s for boys.
“She was asked if she was turning into a boy,” Molina said.
Luckily, Star Wars has some great fans out there and they’re willing to reach out and give some support. The 501st Legion — a charitable group of Star Wars fans that seem willing to swoop in and help those in need despite aligning themselves with the dark side — got wind of Murphy’s situation after she met member Jason Tuttle at a fan convention. Her story spread on Facebook and a shot of confidence came flying in to the rescue:
“A lot of the Star Wars community and fans are supportive, and a lot of the females can relate and had similar experiences in their own childhoods,” said Molina.
People started sending Layla more and more “Star Wars” gifts.
The biggest gift of all came in the form of a custom Stormtrooper armor (originally created for Katie Goldman, another bullied Star Wars fan) and a chance to meet “Weird Al” Yankovic at a concert (with the 501st on stage to help him out).
It’s pretty damn cool and Layla will hopefully wear it with pride. It’s a lot better than teaching her to fight her bullies, like other parents suggested her family do. If there’s anything sillier than making fun of someone for liking Star Wars, it’s starting a fight over Star Wars (unless said fight is an actual Star War, for freedom).
(Via 501st Legion / CNN)
