We Smile – STOP THE HURT Campaign

Every day, countless children silently endure the pain of being bullied—both in schools and online—leaving deep emotional scars that can last a lifetime. Research shows that youth who experience bullying are nearly twice as likely to attempt suicide as those who are not targeted. Globally, almost 1 in 10 adolescents report having made a suicide attempt, and more than 40% say they’ve been bullied. Here in the United States, about one in five students between ages 12 and 18 are bullied each school year. For those caught in the cycle as both victims and aggressors, known as “bully-victims,” the risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts rises even higher—over 11% report having tried to take their own lives. These numbers are not just statistics—they represent real children, real families, and real pain. Through the We Smile campaign, we are taking a stand to Stop the Hurt, raise awareness, and give every child the love, voice, and support they need to heal and thrive.


We Smile is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting children from the devastating effects of bullying and suicide. Through our STOP THE HURT Campaign, we combine awareness, action, and healing:

 

Anti-Bullying & Suicide Awareness – Giving children and families a voice, reminding our community that bullying is not “just kids being kids” but a crisis that must be taken seriously.

 

The We Smile Walk – An annual walk to raise awareness and funds, bringing families together to stand against bullying.

The Summer Retreat  – A two-week healing camp for 25 children, providing cabins, outdoor activities, fireside chats, and professional counseling.

 

STOP THE HURT Petition & Bill – Calling for schools and parents to be held accountable for bullying behavior, ensuring stronger protections for students.

Youth Events (Dances & Gatherings) – Safe, fun spaces for school-age kids, designed to bring parents out to sign the petition and join the movement.

 

 

✍️ Sign the STOP THE HURT Petition

 

Bullying is not just a childhood phase — it’s a serious issue that can leave lasting scars and, far too often, leads to suicide. Parents and schools must be held accountable when bullying occurs.

The current anti-bullying laws are old and antiquated. We live in a different time — with cyberbullying, social media, and new pressures that make bullying more harmful than ever. The laws must change to protect today’s children.

We are calling on lawmakers to pass the STOP THE HURT Bill, which will:

  • Hold parents responsible for addressing their child’s bullying behavior.
  • Require schools to respond quickly and seriously to all reports of bullying.
  • Treat all acts of bullying as a crime to ensure accountability and protection for children.

By signing this petition, you are demanding that lawmakers take action and bring our laws into the present.

No child should suffer in silence. Together, we can STOP THE HURT. 

WE SMILE SUMMER RETREAT

“The We Smile Retreat: where healing meets hope”

 

The We Smile Retreat is a two-week summer program designed to give children who have experienced bullying a safe place to heal, grow, and just be kids again.

During the retreat, 25 children will stay in lakeside cabins and take part in activities that combine fun, friendship, and healing:

  • Guided nature walks to restore peace and confidence

  • Fireside chats that encourage open conversations

  • Movie nights for laughter and bonding

  • Fishing and swimming to build joy and self-esteem

  • Sessions with trained professionals who help kids cope and heal from bullying

This retreat is more than a summer getaway — it’s a chance for children to find hope, strength, and community in a safe, supportive environment.

 

ALAYNA'S CHOICE

This original song is a message of hope and unity — reminding us that when people come together, we can overcome bullying and bring healing to our children.

We Gone Make It

Executive Producer: Tara E. Davis

 

This song was written as an anthem of hope, unity, and healing — a reminder that even in the face of pain, we can rise, rebuild, and smile again.

“We Smile” represents the heartbeat of our campaign — bringing people together to stand against bullying, support mental wellness, and remind every child that their life matters. 💜

Thank you for listening to our song of hope and unity. Together, we can stop the hurt.

Share this song with friends and family to spread the message.

Community Impact Statement

The Shreveport Film & Music Festival is proud to support the local community through The We Smile Foundation and the STOP THE HURT Campaign, two powerful initiatives designed to bring awareness to bullying, youth suicide prevention, and emotional wellness among children and teens.

Through these programs, the festival not only showcases talent but also creates opportunities to heal, uplift, and inspire. A portion of festival proceeds directly supports youth retreats, mental health resources, and community events that encourage families to stand together against bullying and promote hope for the next generation.