Sussexes honor grieving mother and advocate for children's online safety
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have issued a powerful and emotional statement highlighting the importance of protecting children from online harm, as they marked World Storytelling Day with a tribute to a mother who turned personal tragedy into advocacy.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, parents to Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3, used the occasion to honour Joann Bogard—a member of The Parents’ Network supported by their Archewell Foundation—who lost her son Mason due to dangers stemming from the digital world.
In their statement, the couple praised Joann for “harnessing the power of storytelling as a way to push for change,” and recognised her "unimaginable loss" as the driving force behind her commitment to safeguarding families across the U.S.
Joann was recently honoured at the 2025 Gala of The Organization for Social Media Safety for her tireless efforts to pass Mason’s Education Act in Indiana. The legislation now requires digital safety education in schools across the state.
“Joann’s strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss is truly inspiring,” read a statement from a fellow network member. “Her courage to share such a heartbreaking story shows the real challenges parents face in today’s digital age.”
The Sussexes concluded by saying, “We congratulate Joann on being recognised as The Parents’ Network continues to work alongside her towards a safer world online.”
Through their Archewell Foundation, Harry and Meghan continue to champion initiatives aimed at protecting children and supporting families in an increasingly connected world.
