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An upcoming Cartoon Network documentary aimed at encouraging bullied kids to stand up features US President Barack Obama.
As the father of two young girls, the statesman is concerned about how bullying affects kids. He introduces the 30-minute film, and appeals to students, parents and teachers to take a stand on bullying, according to Reuters.
"It's wrong, it's disruptive and we can all prevent it," said Obama, who hosted the first White House conference on bullying last year.
He said that he was speaking not only as the President but as a father. "We've all got more work to do. Everyone has to take action against bullying."
In the US, a quarter of all kids experience bullying at some point, and the film features celebrities, athletes and survivors, as well as stories from kids who have been bullied, and tips for overcoming bullying.
And the South African context?
While it’s notable that the President himself is prepared to intervene and get involved in advocacy projects, it leaves highlights the lack of similar interventions or advocacy on the part of his South African counterpart. Former President Nelson Mandela was passionately involved in his Children’s Fund, displaying his interest in youth development.
In SA schools, there are frequent stories of bullying, violence and victimization happening in schools, and yet government response is often inadequate or after the fact.
That said, Obama is a gifted and persuasive orator, with a keen eye for opportunities to reach the public. Could his appearance merely be a way of generating more fans for himself?
What do you think? Is it the President’s job to take on the challenges facing kids?
An upcoming Cartoon Network documentary aimed at encouraging bullied kids to stand up features US President Barack Obama.
As the father of two young girls, the statesman is concerned about how bullying affects kids. He introduces the 30-minute film, and appeals to students, parents and teachers to take a stand on bullying, according to Reuters.
"It's wrong, it's disruptive and we can all prevent it," said Obama, who hosted the first White House conference on bullying last year.
He said that he was speaking not only as the President but as a father. "We've all got more work to do. Everyone has to take action against bullying."
In the US, a quarter of all kids experience bullying at some point, and the film features celebrities, athletes and survivors, as well as stories from kids who have been bullied, and tips for overcoming bullying.
And the South African context?
While it’s notable that the President himself is prepared to intervene and get involved in advocacy projects, it leaves highlights the lack of similar interventions or advocacy on the part of his South African counterpart. Former President Nelson Mandela was passionately involved in his Children’s Fund, displaying his interest in youth development.
In SA schools, there are frequent stories of bullying, violence and victimization happening in schools, and yet government response is often inadequate or after the fact.
That said, Obama is a gifted and persuasive orator, with a keen eye for opportunities to reach the public. Could his appearance merely be a way of generating more fans for himself?
What do you think? Is it the President’s job to take on the challenges facing kids?
