#USA #Los Angeles #Act To Change #bullying prevention #AAPI youth

ACTober Against Bullying: A Transformative Initiative by Act To Change

This October marks a significant turning point in the ongoing battle against bullying as Act To Change unveils its very first digital campaign, ACTober Against Bullying. Coinciding with National Bullying Prevention Month, the initiative aims to foster kindness, amplify voices, and encourage inclusive practices among youths. This year, Act To Change places a spotlight on the experiences of AAPI youth, particularly in response to the alarming statistics indicating that 90% of these young individuals have faced race-related bullying within the past year.

Aya Hashi, honored as the 2025 Youth Changemaker of the Year, emphasizes, "Act To Change has cultivated an environment empowering youth to raise their voices for a world free from hate and bullying."

Collaborative Efforts with Industry Leaders

In collaboration with Google Play, the campaign features a curated collection of teacher-approved children's apps alongside engaging videos on YouTube Kids, all designed to promote kindness, celebrate diversity, and inspire children to contribute to a safer environment. The goal is to provide youth with the tools and skills necessary to develop resilience and actively confront bullying.

Additionally, eos Products, the trending personal care brand beloved by Gen Z, has pledged its support by not only promoting the campaign but also making a generous donation. Meanwhile, Covry, known for their inclusive eyewear, has launched a limited-edition microfiber lens cloth designed in partnership with youth ambassadors from Act To Change. Proceeds from the sales of this product will go directly to support anti-bullying initiatives designed to empower AAPI youth and promote inclusive communities.

A Coalition of Voices

The campaign is further bolstered by the participation of various celebrities who are keen to lend their support. Prominent figures like Anna Cathcart, Ryan Alexander Holmes, and Bowen Yang have come forward to champion this cause, sharing heartfelt messages that reflect the importance of visibility and representation for young people of diverse backgrounds. Cathcart remarked, "Act To Change is helping AAPI youth feel seen and valued. It's crucial for young people to know that their identities and voices matter."

Bowen Yang added, "Being different is not just something to endure; it's something to celebrate. Kindness and community are at the heart of our work here."

The Campaign's Ambitious Goals

With ACTober Against Bullying, Act To Change has established an ambitious fundraising target of $250,000 aimed at sustaining youth-led community programs and expanding its anti-bullying efforts across the nation. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to gather 10,000 commitments from individuals pledging to take action against bullying in their schools and communities.

Maulik Pancholy, a co-founder of Act To Change, expressed hopes that the campaign would inspire a greater movement towards empathy, belonging, and inclusivity in all youth engagements. "We aim to motivate school communities to not only express support but also to engage in proactive measures against bullying," he stated.

Sumi Parekh, Chair of Act To Change's Board, reflected on the organization's impact, "As we approach the end of 2025, we are witnessing a significant shift in the anti-bullying narrative thanks to our dedicated partners and community members."

For those inspired to support this crucial mission, Act To Change encourages participation through pledges and donations at actober.acttochange.org.

About Act To Change

Act To Change is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating bullying and hate within the AAPI community. The organization empowers youth through education, social engagement, and community advocacy. Follow Act To Change on Instagram @acttochange to stay updated with their initiatives.