Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, are whining about online bullying and its impact on mental health through their new initiative, The Parents Network. Sponsored by their Archewell Foundation, this program aims to educate and equip parents to recognize and respond to signs of cyberbullying and potential suicide.
In an interview set to air on “CBS News Sunday Morning,” Meghan shared her worries about the digital threats facing children, including her own. “But all you want to do as parents is protect them. And so, as we can see what’s happening in the online space, we know that there’s a lot of work to be done there, and we’re just happy to be able to be a part of change for good,” she said.
Harry echoed these concerns, highlighting the need for parental vigilance. “At this point, we’ve got to the stage where almost every parent needs to be a first responder,” he explained. “And even the best first responders in the world wouldn’t be able to tell the signs of possible suicide. That is the terrifying piece of this.”
The couple’s advocacy extends beyond awareness, as demonstrated by their previous calls to tech companies to make platforms safer for children. “Please stop sending children content you wouldn’t want your own children to see,” Harry urged in October.
Their upcoming tour of Colombia, which follows a similar visit to Nigeria, underscores their commitment to this cause. Colombian Vice President Francia Marquez expressed excitement about their visit, stating, “During their trip, The Duke and Duchess will join me in visiting Bogotá, as well as the Caribbean and Pacific regions of Cartagena and Cali.”
Despite warnings from the U.S. regarding safety concerns in Colombia, Harry and Meghan are determined to engage with local leaders, youth, and women. Their visit aims to spotlight the rich cultural heritage of Colombia while addressing the pressing issue of cyberbullying.
A former royal protection officer commented on their choice to visit Colombia, one of the world’s most dangerous countries, by saying, “Nothing amazes me [with Harry and Meghan] these days.”
As Harry and Meghan continue their efforts to tackle online bullying and its severe consequences, their initiative emphasizes the crucial role of parents in protecting their children in the digital age.
