Experts say cyber bullying growing in Cayman

(CNS): As the country marks its first ever Bullying Awareness Month, local experts said that there is more to bullying than “just kids being kids” and the problem of cyber bullying here in the Cayman Islands is increasing. The Family Resource Centre (FRC), which has organised the awareness month, aims to educate the public on how to protect children from the effects of bullying and to unite communities. FRC’s programme coordinator, Miriam Foster, urged parents to use the month as a good opportunity to talk with their children about bullying and their online experiences.

“Considering the advanced forms of technology and popular social sites now available, cyber bullying is a growing issue in the Cayman Islands and it is critical that young people understand the consequences of what they post online,” she said

The first of a number of events will be the Take a Stand Conference on Wednesday, 16 October from 5:30pm-8:30pm at the George Town Public Library. The event will include interactive presentations, hands-on activities and information for children, teens, parents and employers. LIME staff will also facilitate computer safety and cyber bullying prevention sessions.

Cyber bullying can range from sending mean messages or threats, spreading rumours, and posting unflattering pictures, to pretending to be someone else online. Z99 and its sponsors are helping educate through Radio Public Service Announcements.

Refreshments will be available. The event is free but registration is required. To register, interested persons are asked to contact the centre at 949-0006 or email frc@gov.ky.

Friday 18 October  will be 'Stand Up Day'. The public is encouraged to participate in the Business and Professional Women’s Club (BPWC) Silent Witness March at 5:30 pm as the domestic violence march is now being extended to victims of bullying, since these relationships are parallel.

Following this, Ocean Marie Van Der Bol will share her personal story on bullying. 

A collaborative art piece created on the day will also be on display at Heroes’ Square during the rest of the month.