The way we hurt each other has evolved™ is the powerful message behind a new documentary chronicling the frightening reality of cyberbullying. Produced by Les Ottolenghi and Ashley Reid of PLAT4M STUDIOS LLC, Submit the Documentary took me on an emotional hour-long journey where I was moved by first-hand accounts of cyberbullying and inspired to help bring about change. Through the eyes of victims, families, experts and actual perpetrators, Submit depicts this growing and pervasive problem in rich detail, backed by thorough research.
When I was asked to review the documentary, I gratefully jumped at the opportunity. The topic of cyberbullying is near and dear to my heart, not only because I’m a mom, but because I’ve been working in Online Community Management for close to 10 years. Cyberbullying is something I have dealt with on a one-to-one basis many times. I’ve often heard from school districts, teachers and parents – concerned parties trying desperately to help children escape from the grips of cyberbullies. I have comfort knowing that the community I work in takes a strong stand against this behavior and in turn, swift action. Unfortunately, not all online attacks can be dealt with as easily and no matter how quickly an issue is resolved, there are long-standing residual effects.
Submit highlights the dangers and challenges of this new world of aggression, revealing that ANYONE can be a bully. With the explosion of social networking sites and streamlined one-click technologies, anyone can hide behind the walls of the Internet or their cell phone. As parents, it is important to be aware of your children’s online activities and who they are communicating with. Submit discusses these issues at length and offers pragmatic advice and guidance on how to recognize and confront the most problematic issues.
According to the film, the solution lies within the three layers of cyberbullying – victim/bully/bystander. There are usually a significant number of bystanders who either say nothing or do nothing. These are the people – the group – that have the most power to bring about change. If every bystander stood up and said “This is not okay” the perpetrators would be overtaken and brought down. They would become powerless, unable to hurt. Growing up, I never allowed the weak and defenseless to be picked on or ridiculed. I stood up to bullies. I’m asking you to do the same. Together, we can put an end to cyberbullying. NO BYSTANDERS!
Submit recognizes the importance of cyberbully awareness. You can support this cause by extending its reach to every student and parent across the US.
Disclosure: The opinion and views expressed above are my own. No outside influence or compensation was received to preview the film.
This is such an important topic. I’m so glad to hear about this film. It sounds like something we all need to see. No bystanders works for in person bullying, too. I can’t wait to see this film. –Lisa
The Dose of Reality recently posted..Yes, That Is Really What We Looked Like
Definitely recommend it! I have to warn you. I cried multiple times.
But the message is so important.
I agree – such an important topic and one that didn’t exist when we were kids. At all. I have such young kids right now but I think so much about how technology will change between now and when they’re older.
Tamara Camera recently posted..No Words: Lifestyle Photography.
We worried about being picked on out on the playground. Whole new world today. And I share your worry. My youngest is 16-months and I do have a surprise that I haven’t yet shared with anyone.
Technology will change considerably for our little ones.
I’m planning on checking this out. Cyberbullying is such an important topic and having teens, I want to make sure they know how they can make a difference and bring about change! Thank you for sharing!!
Michelle recently posted..Classic Mom “What Was I Thinking?” Moment
You are welcome! Just make sure you have tissues handy. It’s uplifting, but rips your heart out at the same time.
I was cyberbullied in high school….it’s amazing what effect words can have. So sad.
Blond Duck recently posted..Friday Five: Waffles
It can stick with you forever. That’s why we need to put a stop to it. We need to take a stand.
Thank you again for the review on “Submit the Documentary” if any of your readers would also like to see the Producer’s version or do a review as well please pass on my contact information and we would be more than happy to make sure everyone has a chance to see the film.
Kristin Matysik recently posted..No bullies: Bay County’s Pinconning schools to unveil app for that
Will do! Thanks, Kristin!
Can’t wait to check it out, thanks for the tip. I don’t feel like most people, parents, schools, etc are prepared or even understand cyber bullying.
Angela recently posted..The endless search for the perfect coffee mug
Could not agree more. Parents don’t talk about it enough with their children either.