The US Embassy in Dhaka, in partnership with the American Film Showcase (AFS), hosted a screening of the documentary ‘15 Minutes of Shame’ at the American Center to observe Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

This event brought together a diverse audience, including IT students, civil society members, media, and academics, as part of the Embassy's efforts to promote digital safety and responsible online practices.

Besides the American Center, the screening also took place in four American corners in Barishal, Sylhet, Chattogram and Rajshahi virtually. Approximately 200 viewers watched the documentary together across these five venues.

Bren Flanigan, Deputy Director of Public Engagement at the US Embassy Dhaka, inaugurated the event, emphasizing the real-world consequences of online harassment and public shaming.

He highlighted the growing challenges of digital privacy and security, stressing the need for increased awareness and responsible behavior online.

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‘15 Minutes of Shame’, directed by Monica Lewinsky and Max Joseph, delves into the personal toll of public shaming and cyber-harassment, featuring real-life accounts of individuals impacted by online misconduct.

Following the screening, Tawhida Shiropa, founder and CEO of Moner Bondhu, led a discussion on mental health in the digital age and the importance of safeguarding personal security in online spaces.

The US Embassy hosted this event as part of its ongoing commitment to addressing challenges in the digital age, particularly in relation to online privacy, harassment, and freedom of expression. The event encouraged critical engagement with the internet, safer digital spaces, and highlighted the role of storytelling in addressing digital security and social change.

Organized with the American Film Showcase, it is part of a US Department of State program fostering cross-cultural dialogue on issues like cyber-harassment and human rights.