Hello, I am an 8th grader, and I am looking to unite and empower kids to use social media more safely and responsibly. 

In August 2021, I was studying for the SSAT. I also played a video game called Rocket League. The game has a feature that allows you to chat with the people you are playing with. During one match, I "friended" a stranger and started talking to him. On a related note, to get rare cosmetic items in Rocket League, you have to use real money, which my parents would likely disapprove of. This stranger promised to give 20 dollars to my Nintendo Eshop account. A few days later, he did. At that moment, I could not believe that this random kid was giving me free money! I felt a rush of adrenaline, as I had all that I wanted at my fingertips. I decided to use the 20 dollars before telling my parents. I certainly was not thinking clearly or critically.

The are many reasons why this is not safe. Firstly, I did not know the true identity of this person. The stranger was “11”, but he could have been an adult man. In hindsight, there were also red flags about his online behavior, such as sharing his “conversations” with his younger sister instead of talking to me directly. Secondly, this person gave me 20 dollars for free. Who knows what he might want from me in return for more money?

I am definitely not the only person who has encounters in the digital space with strangers. Other kids may have gotten scammed in similar situations, or even gave away personal information, which is a major safety problem.

This is why I have decided to start a petition that kids can sign to make sure that they are using social media safely and inclusively. If you sign this petition, you hold yourself accountable to what is on it. To join our movement, you must agree to:

1. Only talk to people you know and never share personal information. Additionally, talk to your parents or caregivers. It is important to reach a consensus about how you will use social media in your home in order to build trust and respect.  

2. Be kind. It's easy to hide behind the keyboard. Remember, your digital footprint will follow you your whole life. If you see something dangerous, abusive, or disrespectful, report it and tell a trusted adult.

3. Be mindful of time spent on social media. Notice how often you use your device and what you use it for. Also, pay attention to how it makes you feel. Multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media use and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, and loneliness. 

My mission is to empower kids to use social media safely and inclusively. By agreeing to sign a petition in which we all take responsibility and accountability for our own actions, we can be united to make the digital world a kinder and healthier place for our generation.