After uploading a heartbreaking video to YouTube stating all the torment and negativity she had been receiving from her peers, Amanda Todd committed suicide. There was a panic in the media when her video went viral receiving millions of views. She became a prime example of the negative side effects of bullying and a year ago yesterday marks the one year anniversary of her death. Like other victims of bullying, Amanda was seen as outside the social norm. After numerous accounts of bullying Amanda was excluded by her peers. This led to social exclusion (depression; not wanting to participate in social activities) and ultimately made her commit suicide. Since her death her mother vowed to become an active fighter against bullying and do all she could to incite change. Have any changes occurred? As a matter of fact, yes. Due to the increase in bullying (making it not a statistical rarity) communities and organizations have come together to combat it. Legacy Funds have been set up to help victims of mental illness and raise money for anti-bullying education. These funds have even been supported by famous athletes such as five-time world boxing champion Evander Holyfield. Programs have been created such as the ERASE (Expect Respect and A Safe Education) program. This $2 million program launched by Christy Clark allows students to report bullying anonymously. Although it won't completely eliminate bullying, it is a start to a greater change.
Link to the article: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/amanda-todd-s-anti-bullying-legacy-1-year-on-1.1959298
Trent Schoolcraft
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