Join us for a free screening of "The Upstanders"

700 West Lincoln Street,Mount Prospect IL 60056

26 January, 2023

Description

Join us for a free screening of the powerful film "The Upstanders," followed by a panel discussion with some of District 57's mental health professionals. Middle school students, their parents/guardians, and community adults are invited to attend. "The Upstanders" explores all sides of cyber-bullying, from bully to victim, bystanders and family members. Social media’s power means that bullying is now a 24/7 phenomenon, where even changing schools and phone numbers, or deleting accounts cannot stop the cycle. COVID has increased the incidence of cyber-bullying by 70%. Changing human behavior and connection is the key, and this is what the film addresses. Weaving together personal stories of teenagers and their families, as well as teachers and brain-scientists, "The Upstanders" shows the importance of empathy and resilience to transforming attitudes and action, and highlights new laws and established programs that are already reducing bullying in schools and communities. It shows that everyone is needed to eradicate cyber-bullying, and gives bystanders the confidence and tools to become 'Upstanders', and help change the narrative.