Amy Neville and Kristin Bride share a deep bond, formed on June 23, 2020—a day marked by tragedy as both mothers lost their teenage sons. Although the boys lived miles apart and never met, their deaths were rooted in online harms stemming from social media use. As early advocates for online child safety, Bride recalls feeling “totally alone” until the movement began to grow. More parents, grieving similar losses, have since joined the call for social media reforms to protect children.
This growing momentum is evident in recent jury verdicts that hold tech companies accountable for risks posed to young users. The U.S., however, lags behind other countries like Australia and Indonesia, which enforce social media bans for children. Despite this, Congress is increasingly seen as supportive of regulation, reigniting discussions on safeguarding children online. Neville stated, “We now have the court of public opinion on our side, and that is powerful.” Her son Alexander Neville, described as “brilliant and intense,” died from fentanyl poisoning after encountering a drug dealer through Snapchat at the age of 14. Meanwhile, Carson Bride, remembered as the “bright light” in his family, died by suicide after suffering cyberbullying.
The sixth anniversary of their deaths served as a memorial in Washington, D.C., for over 270 young individuals lost to online threats. Commemorated as Social Media Victims Remembrance Day, families gathered to honor their loved ones.
Carrie Baeten remembers her son Jack McDonough during the memorial event.
Evidence from recent trials has shed light on how tech companies’ addiction-driving designs, akin to gambling or drugs, contribute to their platforms’ harms. The trial in Los Angeles, which proceeded amid accusations against social media companies for harming children intentionally, is pivotal. Matthew Bergman of the Social Media Victims Law Center emphasized the movement beyond Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act, which previously shielded tech companies. Lawsuits have targeted companies’ design decisions, making accountability more feasible.
Progress is gradual in U.S. legislation. The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act demands parental consent for collecting personal data from children under 13. Recently, the Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act was introduced, containing elements from the Kids Online Safety Act. Critics note its weakened status due to the removal of the “duty of care” clause, essential for compelling companies to prevent harm.
Sen. Marsha Blackburn pressed for tougher action on tech companies prioritizing profits over child safety.
Advocates argue for a multi-pronged strategy involving legislation, litigation, and education. Bride underscores this approach as crucial, stating, “We have the trials and litigation, so we keep pressing forward.” During the memorial, speeches and emotions highlighted ongoing efforts for online safety.
Brittney Bird receives comfort during the memorial for her son Bradyn Bohn.
Aaron Neville mourns his son, Alexander Neville, during the event.
Tech platforms such as Snap claim to continually enhance safety measures, although changes like teen account privacy and controlled communication on platforms indicate slow progress. Instagram restricts teen content visibility based on “PG-13” standards. YouTube offers a kids app and parental controls. However, child advocates seek far-reaching reforms. Bergman remarked, “Their incentive to design for engagement hasn’t changed; baby steps are necessary but insufficient.”
Since 2024, the Senate annually marks June 23 as Social Media Harms Victim Remembrance Day. This day commemorates lives lost due to online challenges, bullying, and other dangers. Senators, alongside families, call for decisive action, notably the repeal of Section 230.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar insists on legislative change.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal prioritizes fighting for the living.
Sen. Josh Hawley criticizes Congress’s lack of action.
The Senate Judiciary Committee, aware of accelerating concerns, invites tech CEOs for hearings centered on children’s safety. Some parents and lawmakers see parallels with tobacco’s historical tipping point.
Bride and Neville remain attentive during hearings, emphasizing the urgency of action. Neville admits the constant pressure of unaddressed risks worries her, but it fuels persistence. “Lives are on the line; we must discuss and address these issues.”