The Lost Screen Memorial

Matt Sweeney, Jools Sweeney, Ellen Roome

Bereaved families who attended the event hosted by The Archewell Foundation in NYC

Words borrowed from https://archewell.org/news/unveiling-the-lost-screen-memorial/

The Archewell Foundation unveiled the Lost Screen Memorial in New York City—a deeply moving art installation honoring the lives of children lost to online harm. As part of the No Child Lost to Social Media campaign, led through The Archewell Foundation Parents’ Network, the memorial is a powerful call to action for urgent online safety reform.

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, attended a private vigil at the site, standing in solidarity with nearly 50 families from The Parents’ Network whose children were commemorated in the installation. These parents are a powerful representation of the thousands of families who have lost their children to online harm and are transforming their personal loss into meaningful change. The installation features 50 illuminated lightboxes, designed to resemble smartphones, with each displaying the lock screen photo of a child whose life was cut short by digital dangers. These images serve as both a tribute and a stark reminder of the human cost behind online harm.  This tribute builds on over four years of work by the Duke and Duchess and The Archewell Foundation in the digital safety space, reflecting a continued commitment to creating a safer digital world. By engaging with families, amplifying their voices, and championing responsible technology, this work aims to shape a more compassionate, accountable digital environment. The Lost Screen Memorial also serves as a poignant extension of the Duke’s remarks at the 2024 Clinton Global Initiative, where he called for immediate action to protect children online. In his speech, he shared that his own lock screen features a photo of his children—a reminder of what’s at stake for families everywhere. Through this initiative, The Archewell Foundation continues to provide resources, support, and a collective voice for families navigating the complex challenges of parenting in a digital world. Open for 24 hours, the Lock Screen Memorial invites families, advocates, and changemakers to pause, reflect, and honor the lives of children gone far too soon—and to renew our collective commitment to protecting those still here.