In a bold move, students at Lincoln High School are flipping the script on the controversial Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. Instead of focusing on the dark themes of teen suicide, this group is highlighting uplifting stories through their initiative entitled “13 Reasons Why Not.”
The show has faced backlash for its portrayal of suicide as a way to seek revenge on those who have wronged you. Critics argue that it romanticizes the act and fails to address the underlying mental health issues that often contribute to such decisions. To counter this narrative, students at Lincoln High are sharing heartfelt stories of kindness and support that have helped them through difficult times.
Throughout May, each morning, a new story has been broadcast over the school loudspeaker, spotlighting acts of compassion that have made a difference in students’ lives. The project aims to foster a sense of community and remind their peers that they have a voice right now, not just after a tragedy.
One of the students, Jamie Carter, articulated their concerns, saying, “While 13 Reasons Why did portray some real high school experiences, it implied that suicide was the only escape. We wanted to show that there are other options and ways to cope.” On the first day, Carter shared their own story, expressing gratitude to a friend who stood by them during a tough period, saying, “You are one of my 13 reasons why not.”
The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with students offering support and sharing their own tales of resilience. On Day 4, Alex Monroe spoke about a teammate who showed kindness amidst bullying, and received hugs and encouragement from peers. Similarly, Sam Lee, who spoke on Day 5 about struggles with body image, found solidarity from classmates who reached out with similar experiences.
This initiative not only stands as a response to the Netflix series but also serves as a tribute to a former student, Megan Roberts, who tragically took her own life in 2015. Her sister, Lily, now a junior at the school, shared, “If we had something like this when Megan was here, maybe she would have felt more supported.”
Since the project started, attendance has improved, as students come to hear the stories being shared. The halls ring with supportive voices, and those who are struggling feel empowered to seek help. “We’re establishing a new culture in our school,” Carter noted. “It’s okay to talk about your challenges—let’s support each other better.”
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In summary, Lincoln High School’s “13 Reasons Why Not” project is a heartwarming response to the troubling themes of 13 Reasons Why. By sharing personal stories of kindness, students are fostering a supportive environment that encourages open dialogue about mental health and resilience.