I grew up facing the harsh realities of bullying every day, being targeted for things I have no control over—my gender, my identity, and my neurodiversity, including autism and ADHD. Being bullied and beaten up led to depression, and my only refuge has been the friendships I've cultivated online. For many young people like myself, people, especially other teens online have made us felt better, same goes for the rest of the world the online world isn't just a pastime; it's our community, our sanctuary, and sometimes our only lifeline for genuine social interaction.

COPPA 2.0, a proposed amendment to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, threatens to severely restrict online communication and social media usage for individuals under 17. While protecting children's privacy is important, this law overlooks the realities of modern day youth who rely on digital connections to find acceptance and friendship. If implemented, COPPA 2.0 would strip away the only form of social engagement for countless teens, leaving them even more isolated than before.

Statistics indicate that rates of bullying remain high, with about 20% of students aged 12-18 experiencing bullying nationwide. Meanwhile, around 45% of teenagers report making friends online, illustrating the significance of digital spaces as places where young people find acceptance and belonging. For LGBTQ+ youth, data show that 52% have found their closest friends online. Taking away the ability to chat online not only endangers the mental health of these young individuals but also marginalizes those already facing discrimination and exclusion in real life. Such as trans teens, queer teens, furries, cosplayers, etc.

COPPA 2.0 would do more harm than good by severing critical online connections for the very youths who need them most—a demographic already grappling with identity, acceptance, and societal judgment. There are alternative solutions that balance protecting children's safety online with their right to engage in meaningful social interactions. Strengthened, but more logical and reasonable parental controls, better digital literacy education, a safer education system for disabled, online social games for teens and kids (like Webkinz, Club Penguin, Woozworld, Bin Wevils, Animal Jam, etc), social medias for teens (MY COINED IDEAS: YouTube Teenz, TeenTok, Teenstagram, TeenBook, MyTeenSpace, TeenX, SnapchaTeens, etc.) and the development of safer online communication tools are effective measures that can be enacted without complete and blanket restrictions.

By signing this petition, you're advocating for the consideration of youths who, like myself, rely on online connections for friendship, acceptance, and a safe space to express themselves and combat isolation. Let's urge legislators to think creatively and compassionately about how to protect our privacy without sacrificing our mental wellness and social needs. Please sign to support a more balanced and empathetic approach, one that recognizes the critical role online friendships play in today's world for many teenagers.