Statement: Justice for Todd family, more work ahead to keep Canadian children safe online

Winnipeg, Canada — Our hearts are with the family, friends and loved ones of Amanda Todd following the verdict finding a Dutch national guilty of all charges related to Amanda’s tragic death.

Words cannot fully convey the pain and emotional toll the last decade has taken on the Todd family as they sought justice for Amanda. They have shown tremendous strength and courage throughout this dark journey to hold their child’s abuser accountable. May this day bring solace and a sense of justice to Amanda’s family.

While today’s outcome may inspire faith, the current reality is that thousands of Canadian children and families are victimized every year in unsafe and unregulated digital spaces. No appropriate guardrails currently exist to keep our children safe online in this country.

It is unacceptable that the burden of keeping our youth safe on the internet falls squarely on the shoulders of Canadian parents. Until governments and technology companies make immediate and swift changes to protect children online, history will repeat itself.

We have been complacent for too long. Urgent action is required.

We owe it to Amanda. We owe it to all children.