This morning I was invited to join a press conference with Senator Klein to announce the launch of the New York Cyberbully Census program.
The online survey is the first of its kind andallows students to log on and report experiences with online peer attacks.The final information - gathered at the end of this year - will provide modern statistics that will aid lawmakers in properly understanding the needs of our state's online community.
It's innovative, informative, and empowers students to have a voice and be heard.
Also attending the press conference was Assemblyman Will Scarborough (sponsoring Klein's bill through the New York Assembly), Senator David Carlucci, Florence Simmons (Founder and CEO of Teens Against Crime, Inc.), Jamie Isaacs (Jamie Issacs Foundation for Anti Bullying), Parry Aftab (Internet safety specialist, lawyer and founder ofSTOPCyberbullying.org), the Ursuline Teen Angels (TeenAngels.org) and a number of other supporters.
I must say that one young woman stood out today. After her personal 6 year battle with bullying, Jamie Isaacs started a foundation to help other kids handle peer agression. This 15 year old approached me when I arrived and introduced herself, promptly handing me a wrist band and handout before telling me that - among her many accomplishments - she has saved over 8 kids from suicide. Why is this girl not Miss New York? Her commitment to this cause is evident in her work and she exemplifies everything that the Miss America Orgaization aims to teach and support in young women. She and I talked and I look forward to working with her this year.
First time I met Parry Aftab was from the audience at the New York City Cyberbullying Summit this summer. She is the first internet lawyer and a leading name in the fight against online bullying. I am excited to announce that Parry and I will be partnering up, and I will be bringing her top-of-the-line cyberbully curriculum to schools and organizations across New York State over the coming year. Keep your eyes here for more updates coming soon!
Thank you to Senator Klein for inviting me to join him in these exciting efforts, and thank you to all the supporters who came out today!
Remember, you can still add your voice and continue to support the discussion on cyberbullying in Albany by signing the petition. It is what got Senator Klein's attention, so let's keep it growing and get the attention of all New York lawmakers.
1 comment:
Happy to know about such a well-managed organization party. Thinking to book one of lavish event space NYC for a formal tea party of all my colleagues in a couple of weeks. Will book the best baker for cookies. Want to do the best arrangements to impress them.
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