The #BeKind initiative is an extension of Disney|ABC’s Choose Kindness campaign and will be highlighted in the station’s long-standing and successful Above and Beyond campaign – featuring people in the tri-state area who go above and beyond to promote acts of kindness.
WABC-TV, the No. 1 station in New York and the most-watched station in the nation, announced a 2019 commitment to shine a light on and help combat bullying. On-air talent across WABC-TV is rallying behind the year-long effort. The initiative will encourage viewers to #BeKind through personal testimonials and videos that reinforce the importance of being compassionate. Along with nonprofit partners No Bully, GLSEN, PACER and GLAADs, the multiplatform initiative focuses on inspiring kids, families and change-makers around the country to put an end to bullying in their communities and online.
Throughout 2019, WABC-TV will roll out content across all platforms, including on-air, ABC7NY.com,ABC7NY app and Localish that focus on bullying prevention. The effort will include a series of customized public service announcements (PSAs) and stories from individuals and groups that call on audiences to end negativity, celebrate their differences, support love and, ultimately, Be Kind.
“The #BeKind Campaign is incredibly important to our mission to serve the tri-state community. These powerful stories will shine a light on individuals that go above and beyond to celebrate inclusion, respect andlove,” said Debra O’Connell, president and general manager, WABC-TV. “We’re thrilled that our community and talent have stepped up to drive a heartfelt and honest conversation that encourages our viewers to accept the challenge of being kind. Our ongoing relationships with these nonprofit changemakers continue to make a difference in our communities.”
In addition to the PSAs, the #BeKind Campaign will find and amplify honest testimonials of personal experiences with all types of bullying, including cyberbullying and workplace bullying. As part of the effort, WABC-TV’s website will have a section providing information and tips for viewers, as well as include programs and resources that are available to families who are victims.
Spearheading the effort, Eyewitness News anchor Bill Ritter has engaged school districts across the tri-state area to participate in the #BeKind campaign, as WABC-TV continues to enhance support and resources to our communities.
About WABC
WABC-TV has been the leader in local news and entertainment programming in the New York City area for more than 60 years. Producing more than 45 hours of live, local news and weather each week, Channel 7 “Eyewitness News” is the most–watched local news in New York and the United States. WABC-TV also produces “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” weekdays at 9:00 a.m., which is seen in more than 200 markets across the U.S. Quality news and programming, cutting-edge technology and ongoing community outreach are the hallmarks of excellence that have consistently kept WABC-TV New York’s No. 1 station and the most-watched television station in the nation.