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Speak Up

TVO’s program Your Voice will be hosting a live program related to cyber bullying with a local connection.

Robert Frenette, anti-bullying activist, and Bathurst High School 2008 graduate, will be a member of this National Discussion Panel. The live television program will also be broadcast live online on the TVO Parents website at: www.tvoparents.com today at 10 p.m. Speakers will include besides Robert, Mishna, Univcity of Toronto social worker and bullying expert.

TVO encourages parents to interact directly with guest experts by phone and e-mail, and with other parents via online chat hosted by TVO Parents.

"Anyone who has kids knows they are masters of all things 'cyber' – it's their main form of communication with their peers," said Cheryl Jackson, host and co-producer of Your Voice. "What parents don't often know is what cyberbullying is, and when or if it's happening. TVO helps inform parents about this, and explores the meaning and repercussions of criminalizing online bullying for themselves and their children," she says.

Robert, 19, says this event will give parents a opportunity to express their views related to the possibility of making cyberbullying a law.

"I really hope parents will begin to speak up on this issue," he said.

He invites parents from the Chaleur Rrgion to get involved with this discussion either via the live web cast or via the toll-free number.

In July of this year, the Canadian Teachers' Federation called on the federal government to add cyberbullying to the Criminal Code. Some argue that current legislation doesn't adequately protect online victims, while others say that criminalizing cyberbullying threatens freedom of speech.

"Your Voice will look at this growing debate as well as the role education plays. "We want to give parents tools to prevent their children from being bullies, and to help them help their kids if they become victims," said Ms.Jackson.

Parents can join the live discussion by sending their questions directly to guests online at TVOParents.com, or by phone at (888)-891-1195. They can also interact with other parents in online.