President Barack Obama will be introducing the Cartoon Network’s original documentary on bullying, a March 18 broadcast and online event that is supported by a range of online videos, resources and educational material.
The online videos enforcing the message of Stop Bullying: Speak Up feature the likes of Ne-Yo; five time NBA All-Star Chris Webber (pictured) ; goalkeeper for Team USA Hope Solo; and CJ Manigo, Ali Sepasyar and Jackson Rogow from Cartoon Network’s Dude, What Would Happen.
Additional materials include guides for use by educators, a downloadable tip sheet for parents, and virtual badges that are earned by reading or watching what’s on the website.
The Speak Up documentary will remain viewable online, and additional viewing opportunities across multiple digital platforms will be provided free of charge to customers through Comcast Xfinity, Facebook, iTunes and YouTube.com, each for at least two weeks following the world premiere.
In his introduction to the commercial-free telecast, the President will speak to viewers, not only as the country’s leader but also as a father, to emphasize the importance of taking a stand against bullying.
Additionally, anti-bullying expert Rosalind Wiseman will answer some viewer questions before, during and immediately following the documentary’s March 18 presentation.
Speak Up is directed by Lee Hoffman (Third Act Productions), executive produced by Hoffman and Cartoon Network chief content officer Rob Sorcher, and produced by Rebecca Miller.
“We are honored that President Obama wanted to add his voice to our program,” said Stuart Snyder, president and chief operating officer, Turner Broadcasting’s Animation, Young Adults & Kids Media division. “This is such a key issue for our audience and their families and his participation helps even more to raise awareness about the importance of speaking up.”
Participants in the documentary include young people discussing the difficulties in getting adults to understand along with appearances by Venus Williams (World Tennis Champion), Chris Webber (five time NBA All-Star), Matt Wilhelm (Pro BMX champion), Lisa Leslie (WNBA All-Star); NASCAR drivers Jeff Burton, Trevor Bayne (2011 Daytona 500 winner) and Joey Logano (youngest winner of a NASCAR Sprint Cup race), and the previously mentioned Hope Solo and stars of Dude, What Would Happen.
Related links:
http://www.StopBullyingSpeakUp.com
http://www.pointsmartclicksafe.org
http://www.facebook.com/stopbullyingspeakup
