June 23, 2025, Designated as 'Social Media Harms Victim Remembrance Day'

This resolution officially designates June 23, 2025, as “Social Media Harms Victim Remembrance Day.” Unlike a bill that changes laws or allocates funding, this is a symbolic but significant move designed to acknowledge the very real, often tragic, consequences of life on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X. The core purpose is to honor individuals and families who have suffered harm—including death—due to issues like cyberbullying, exploitation, and the promotion of self-harm and overdose.

The Real-World Cost of the Scroll

The resolution doesn't mince words about the problem it’s trying to highlight. It points out that teenagers are spending roughly eight hours a day on screens, with over 90% using social media, and that this usage has been linked to severe mental health crises. We’re talking about the kind of harm that makes suicide a leading cause of death for teens aged 15 to 19, and the increase in accidental drug poisonings. Think of the parent who finds themselves navigating a cyberbullying crisis that started in a group chat, or the family dealing with the fallout of online exploitation—this day is for them, acknowledging that the digital world has tangible, painful consequences in the physical one.

What the Day Is Supposed to Do

Since this is a resolution, it doesn't create new rules or fines, but it sets expectations and encourages action. It urges everyone—from individuals and community groups to the social media companies themselves—to observe this Remembrance Day. This means holding ceremonies, hosting educational events, and starting advocacy efforts to raise awareness and support for victims and survivors. For the average person, this could mean seeing more focused educational content from their kids' schools or local libraries about digital well-being, or seeing their employer support a day of awareness.

Calling the Regulators to the Table

Beyond public awareness, the resolution specifically calls upon government agencies like the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to work with non-profits and other interested groups. The goal here is collaboration to tackle social media harms, focusing on improving digital literacy and boosting online safety measures. While the resolution doesn't mandate new regulations, it puts these agencies on notice that Congress is deeply concerned about this issue. It’s essentially a formal, public nudge to the people who can make policy changes, asking them to prioritize the safety and rights of those harmed by these platforms.