On Friday 12th December, 89.7 Bay together with MITA and General Soft Drinks announced the launch of the #StopHate campaign, dedicated to fighting Cyber Bullying. Receiving nationwide coverage, the campaign brought much needed attention to the possible dangers that could be encountered online.
Besides launching a website with advice on how to deal which online bullying, 89.7 Bay also produced a series of videos were various influential individuals showed their support. The first video to go viral was that of Maltese MEP Miriam Dalli. Besides praising the initiative, Dalli also commented on the professional approach undertaken by all those involved.
Also supporting the cause is US Ambassador to Malta Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley, who in her video message insisted that 'it's not acceptable to be silent'.
Leader of Opposition Simon Busuttil and Minister Helena Dalli both voiced their praise for this campaign as well as their concern for this new online phenomenon.
89.7 Bay's very own DJs along with Maltese celebrities including Owen Bonnici, Gaia Cauchi and Valentina Rossi also spoke up publically about cyberbullying.
On the day of the launch, the song 'Lion Heart' was also released as part of the #StopHate campaign. Sung by some of Malta's leading music artists, the uplifting tune sent a positive message, whilst encouraging people to speak up, without having to be afraid. A music video was also produced especially for this song and will be released in March.
Youth organisations such as girl guides and scouts, the Armed Forces of Malta, as well as several local companies have also lined up to support the initiative.
Although just about anyone can find themselves a victims of cyberbullying, it is an issue which is often encountered by adolescents. It is for this very reason that school visits have been organised. Taking place in March, 89.7 Bay's DJs, along with representatives from Agenzija Appogg and the Ministry of Education will be speaking to children about the dangers that they may face online, as well as assuring them that help is available and therefore they don't need to deal with such a situation alone.
Kate de Cesare from the Eden Leisure Group stated "The ultimate aim of this campaign was to raise awareness about cyberbullying among parents, schools and kids. The feedback received in the past few months from individuals, private and public entities and organisations has been truly overwhelming and encouraging. We're extremely pleased that we've been successful in getting the message out there and hope that our joint efforts can truly make a difference."
Sponsors of the #StopHate Campaign include InterContinetal Malta, Eden Leisure Group, Times of Malta, Air Malta and also Ministry for Education and Employment, the Ministry for the Family and Social Solidarity, the Ministry for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, Be Smart Online, Water Services Corporation, KidsMalta.com and Agenzija Zaghzagh.