The event featured notable speakers, including Maryland First Lady Dawn Moore, FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez, and Dr. Harsh K. Trivedi, president and CEO of Sheppard Pratt. Moore emphasized the critical role media literacy plays in supporting children’s well-being.

“For the past 55 years, MPT has helped build strong citizens from childhood to adulthood, and the Maryland Center for Media Literacy & Education will build on that legacy,” said Moore. “The well-being of our children is one of my top priorities – and that’s why I will continue to work in partnership with MPT to uplift future generations of Marylanders.”

Dr. Trivedi addressed the mental health impact of social media: “If you’re on social media more than three hours a day, that’s specifically correlated with higher rates of anxiety and depression. It’s really about making information accessible and equipping parents, kids, and educators with tools to improve mental health and behavior.”

Gomez also highlighted the public safety aspect of media literacy, stating, “What MPT is doing today to promote media literacy is important to make sure people can discern what is true and what is misinformation, disinformation, or mal-information.”

The event included student-produced videos from Benjamin Tasker Middle School, DC International School, and Stevenson University, showcasing the importance of media literacy from a young age.