In August, news broke that a nine-year-old boy named Jamel Myles killed himself as a result of homophobic bullying after coming out as gay on the first day of school. His tragic death came nine months after an 11-year-old boy named Keaton Jones went viral for a video asking, "Why do you find joy in taking innocent people and finding a way to be mean to them?" Both heartbreaking instances sparked several touching responses from the music community, including Katy Perry, Cardi B and Kehlani.
Unfortunately, Jalen and Keaton's stories are just two of the many cases of bullying kids face on a regular basis. But with the help of those wanting to spread messages of love, hopefully one day schools around the globe will be free of bullying. This is what STOMP Out Bullying aims to do daily, but particularly on Oct. 1: World Day of Bullying Prevention.
In light of this important day, Billboard, with the support of STOMP Out Bullying, asked artists to send a much-needed message of love and a call to action to end bullying in schools. Liam Payne, The Chainsmokers and Ally Brooke are just a few of the many artists who were eager to take part in the cause, along with Tove Lo, Empire's Jussie Smollett, Parson James and more.
Check out how you can help STOMP Out Bullying at https://www.stompoutbullying.org, and take a look at the special message from the music community above.
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