As the debate continues over the R-rating given to "BULLY," Edgington says she wants to see this important film shown in every middle and high school. She acknowledges some parents and educators will object to the small amount of harsh language in the film, even though it is a realistic look at what is happening on America's campuses. Edgington suggests, "Every parent, teacher and teen see this film! "BULLY" is right on target with its message. Because of the R-rating, I was expecting to hear swear words throughout the film, which is just not the case. To quote Alex, a young boy featured in the film: "I don't believe in luck, but I do believe in hope. This film is powerful and real, and I hope that BULLY is seen by every parent, educator and teenager."
Edgington's teenage daughter Nicole, who is a spokesperson for the NO BULL campaign, also attended the screening and says, "This film is a must-see for kids across America, and it truly has the ability to create change. The R-rating it was given will cripple its ability to inspire America's teens to stand up against bullying, and that is a heartbreaking reality that needs to be changed."
Also in attendance at the "BULLY" screening were: 14-year-old Kevin Cardozo, who is on the NO BULL Youth Advisory Council; and his mother, Kathy Cardozo, who is a NO BULL Advisory Council Member. Kevin says, "It should not have an R-rating for language, as many victims hear these words daily--hard to hear but true. Every kid should see this movie." Kathy agrees saying, "The R-rating would prevent many kids from viewing the movie--many kids who are actually doing the bullying. This would be a tragedy."
Parents have the option to accompany their children to the R-rated film that opens in select theaters March 30th.
Edgington formed The Great American NO BULL Challenge after her daughter, Nicole, was cyberbullied in high school. The campaign, which launched in January, empowers teens to stand up by using the power of social media for good instead of hate. NO BULL is giving students a platform to get involved by helping spread awareness, build courage and learn the importance of equality through a grass-roots movement, learning about all of the aspects related to cyberbullying. Teens are producing anti-bullying videos and submitting them in a nationwide contest; competing for major prizes and the opportunity to share their videos worldwide. The campaign culminates with the NO BULL Teen Video Awards, July 21st in San Francisco. It will be a star-studded event celebrating the accomplishments of the teen filmmakers. Teens have until the end of March to submit their videos at www.nobullchallenge.org.
About Shawn Edgington:
Edgington is the founder of the youth-led annual campaign, the Great American NO BULL Challenge, a non-profit 501c 3 organization; and President of the Cyber Safety Academy. She is a cyberbullying prevention expert and advocate for all children. She's the author of the bestselling book "The Parent's Guide to Texting, Facebook and Social Media" and "Read Between the lines: A Humorous Guide to Texting with Simplicity and Style." Edgington recently appeared on "Anderson" to share dos and don'ts about social networking. Edgington is also the CEO of a national insurance firm located in Northern California.
The Campaign's Strategic Partners:
The campaign's strategic partners include: Formspring, iSafe, National Organizations for Youth Safety, FCCLA, teenDailyStrength, 4-H, Students Against Destructive Decisions, HealthCorps, The Anti-Defamation League, Business Professionals of America, Project Change, American School Counselor Association, iKeepSafe.org, WeStopHate, The Megan Meier Foundation, National Collaboration for Youth, The Bully Police Squad, imbee, Jay Banks Productions, Social Shield, GuestAssist Campus, Communities in Schools, the California Endowment and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Facebook.
Media Contact:
Suzanne Spurgeon
Suzanne@womenmediapros.com
323-656-1536