“13 Reasons Why” Media Statement

By now, many of you have reached out to us about the recent Netflix series “13 Reasons Why,” which is based on Jay Asher’s novel and has graphic depictions of rape, bullying, and suicide. Clearly, this show has generated a great deal of discussion along with widely divided reactions to the topic of suicide.

No matter what your stance is, we need to talk about suicide. For so many reasons.

Each day there is a new article, blog, or post about “13 Reasons Why.” We at Forefront see this as yet another opportunity for parents to talk with their teens, for friends to talk with their peers, and for community members to continue engaging in respectful conversation.

By talking openly with one another and utilizing trusted resources to guide and support these conversations, we hope to move this topic further to the forefront where it belongs.