I experienced teasing and bullying as a child, back in the day when everything happened in the non-virtual world. I can’t imagine what it would have felt like if my tormentors had access to the internet and social media! In Canada, recent incidents of cyberbullying have led to the suicides of young women like Rehtaeh Parsons, Amanda Todd, and Courtney Brown.

This year, the theme for the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia focuses on Cyberbullying with “Fight the Homophobia Web Virus.”  This special day is celebrated every year on May 17th, which was the day, in 1990, that the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from their International Classification of Diseases. Over 60 countries are participating in the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia including Brazil, Turkey, and Cambodia. Canada will be participating in the Global Rainbow Flashmob in Toronto, during OUTShine, the first National Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) Summit.

For a full list of events taking place to mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, you can visit the official website. Today we are encouraged to spread awareness and speak out about the increasing prevalence of cyberbullying. If you see something happening, you can document it in the new Acts of Homophobia Registry.

At Nellie’s we have supported many women who have experienced cyberbullying from abusers. In our summer programs, we teach children about the dangers of bullying. On the last day of her life, Courtney Brown posted this on Facebook: “Important fact: Every day teenagers take their lives because of bullying. So next time you wanna start something or say something or even start a rumor, think twice before you do! “

*Written by Nellie’s Social Justice Committee Member