Justin Bieber To Speak Out Against Bullying

After an incident at a laser tag center in Canada over the weekend, Justin Bieber is reportedly ready to stand up against bullies. On Friday, a 12-year-old used an anti-gay slur against Bieber.

TMZ reports that the 16-year-old star plans to take a stand against homophobia after realizing how hurtful it can be to be bullied, regardless of his own sexuality. Although Bieber is straight, he understands now what it is like to be on the receiving end, according to the website.

It's being reported that Bieber will likely go public about the incident sometime in the next week to bring his support to the anti-bullying campaign. Word is that Bieber's camp wanted to keep the episode quiet, but the singer thought it was more important to be open about it. Police are currently investigating, but after Bieber's camp spoke to police and witnesses backed up his story, it's been concluded that the singer did not instigate the confrontation with the tween.

While Bieber has yet to comment directly, on Monday (October 18) morning he tweeted this message to his fans: "Thanks for everyone supporting the book and the music. glad i get to share who i really am with u guys."

Unnamed sources have told TMZ that the episode went down at Planet Lazer, a laser tag chain that has a location in Richmond, British Columbia. The website reported that Bieber was targeted by an overzealous laser tag participant who lobbed an anti-gay slur at the teen idol. When the 12-year-old stuck his hand out toward Bieber, the pop sensation apparently batted it away and then left the center.

The incident comes during a busy time for the "Baby" crooner. The singer announced Friday that his buzzed-about 3-D flick "Never Say Never" will be released in February. His illustrated memoir, "Justin Bieber: First Step 2 Forever: My Story," just hit shelves. His chart-topping music continues to make an impact and the singer is up for four American Music Award trophies.