Province recognizes annual Cyberbullying Awareness Day
Tomorrow is Cyberbullying Awareness Day in Prince Edward Island, promoting awareness of cyberbullying and encouraging Islanders to help prevent harm by talking openly with children and youth about online safety.
Cyberbullying Awareness Day was established through the Cyberbullying Awareness Day Act, which received unanimous support in the Legislative Assembly of PEI three years ago. The day highlights a growing and complex issue that can have serious and lasting impacts on mental health, well‑being and a sense of belonging, especially for young people.
“Cyberbullying can follow someone everywhere, and its effects can be devastating. As adults, whether we are parents, caregivers, educators, or mentors, we have a responsibility to create space for honest conversations with children and youth about what they are experiencing online and to remind them they are not alone.”
—Premier Rob Lantz
Cyberbullying can take many forms, including sending hurtful or threatening messages, spreading rumours, harassment, and sharing images or information without consent. Often, these behaviours occur out of sight of adults, making awareness, trust, and early conversations critical to prevention.
“Bringing awareness to cyberbullying is not just about naming the problem, it’s about empowering people to act. Talking with young people about respect, empathy, and what to do if something doesn’t feel right online can make a real difference. Today we honour the people who have lost their lives to cyberbullying and the lasting effects on their families.”
—Robin Croucher, Minister of Education and Early Years
On Cyberbullying Awareness Day, Islanders are encouraged to speak with the children and youth in their lives about their online experiences. If you or someone you know is experiencing cyberbullying:
- Don’t respond or retaliate
- Save messages and screenshots
- Block the person involved
- Reach out to a trusted adult or support person
The province continues to work with schools, community organizations and partners to promote awareness, prevention and support for those affected by cyberbullying. An inter-departmental committee is working on the development of a new Youth Cyberviolence Prevention Strategy meant to help reduce incidents and mitigate the negative impacts.
Cyberbullying Awareness Day also serves as a moment to reflect and remember those whose lives have been lost because of cyberbullying and to reaffirm a shared commitment to speak out against it in all its forms.
More information and resources are available at www.cybersafecarepei.ca.
Media contact:
Andrew Sprague
Department of Education and Early Years
asgsprague@gov.pe.ca