Redland City Council has taken a public stand against negative online behaviour, launching a #PledgeNot2Sledge social media campaign in February.
Mayor Karen Williams said the #PledgeNot2Sledge campaign asked people to make individual public pledges not to ‘sledge’ on social media, and encourage others to do the same.
Cr Williams and her 10 fellow Redland City Councillors unanimously made public pledges at their General Meeting on 7 February.
“All Councillors have taken the initiative to launch this campaign in recognition of the significant influence community leaders and adults have on the behaviour of others – we need to set the example,” Cr Williams said.
“Recent cases in media have highlighted the tragic and life-changing consequences of online bullying and negative, abusive and disrespectful social media commentary.
“The #PledgeNot2Sledge campaign is designed to use the power of the community to create an expectation regarding how we interact on social media.
“It is a message relevant in all communities and we are looking forward to working closely with the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) to share this campaign as widely as possible.
“I have written to all levels of government and met with state ministers including Minister for Child Safety, Youth, Women and the Prevention of Domestic Violence Di Farmer to discuss the campaign.
“I have also written to Madonna King as Chair of the Premier’s anti-bullying taskforce who is very supportive of the campaign.”
How to get involved in the #PledgeNot2Sledge campaign:
- Download and display the #PledgeNot2Sledge banner and profile images on your social media pages.
- If you see instances of disrespect, abuse or bullying on social media comment with #PledgeNot2Sledge. Do not engage beyond this with negative or disrespectful social media comments.
- Share the campaign with your friends and family and encourage them to take the #PledgeNot2Sledge.
- Shoot a short video committing to not sledging on social media and upload using the campaign hashtag #PledgeNot2Sledge.
- Most importantly: don’t disrespect, sledge or abuse anyone on social media.
Need help?
For more information about cyberbullying and to report cyberbullying, visit the Office of the eSafety Commissioner website.
If you or someone you know needs help contact:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5 – 25) on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890