Editor:
Everyone has something to say about the untimely death of fifteen-year-old bullying victim Amanda Todd, suggesting something should be done about bullying.
However, harassments, verbal abuses, threatening,and intimidations are punishable by law under the Criminal Code of Canada. CC 264.1 and 423. Why did no one look into this?
Cyber bullying is much harder to control. How does one stop cyber bullies in a world-wide social media network settings like Facebook, Google and Twitter, where millions of users hang out and open up visual windows of themselves for viewers around the globe to see?
Nonetheless, the many breakthroughs in today’s digital landscape present both dangers and constructive possibilities alike.
Prominent educators warn that it is absolutely critical to reach kids in the digital arena where they spend much of their time. Big question is how does one navigate a child’s life away from the demonic actions by sexual prowlers thriving in todays digital landscape?
What is troubling indeed, while these enormous social changes evolved most of our elected leaders, and citizens, crept along with snail-like speed to stem the tide. None made an attempt to write legislation forcing these cyber gurus to create and distribute an “eraser” button so that people could erase false statements and pictures placed there by people aiming to hurt others.
Up until now these rich tech giants, who invented facial recognition technology, claim that creating an eraser button is not feasible technically.
I truly believe that it is the duty of all concerned to embrace the positives of the digital media, and promote innovative uses of technology in schools to prepare kids for the future. Millions of users already are using CommonSense.org to find very “good stuff”.
There are many electronic games on the market that provide positive experiences for kids and families at fair prices. All is not lost.
Nonetheless, it truly is lamentable that Amanda Todd’s young life was snuffed out so dramatically. Let’s pray that this sad event may wake up a lethargic, dozing adult community.
Gertie Pool, Abbotsford
