SHERMAN OAKS, Calif. — Keosian Law LLP hosted “Beyond the Screen: Social Media, Gaming & Our Kids” on September 15, at Republic Venue in Sherman Oaks, which generously donated the space. The event brought the community together for a forum addressing concerns about children’s online safety.
The event was also live streamed on the firm’s official Facebook page, reaching thousands of viewers who watched live and had an opportunity to ask questions.
The town hall brought together speakers from federal law enforcement, the legal profession and mental health practice to focus attention on social media and gaming addiction, cyberbullying, and online predators.
The event focused on a concern that reaches directly into family life: understanding what children may encounter through the platforms they use to play, communicate and connect with others. Its significance lay in bringing different professional perspectives into the same conversation, giving parents an opportunity to ask questions about warning signs, available support and the legal issues surrounding online harm.
Harout Greg Keosian, FoundingPartner at Keosian Law LLP, served as the event’s master of ceremonies.“Parents deserve clear information about the risks their children may face online and a place to ask difficult questions. We organized this town hall to bring that conversation into the open and help families understand where they can turn for support,” shared Harout Greg Keosian.
The program featured speakers whose work spans the legal, law enforcement and mental health issues raised by children’s use of social media and online games:
- Melkon Rafi Melkonian, Managing Attorney and Partner at Keosian Law LLP, spoke on the topic: “Roblox and the Risks Facing Our Children.”
- Joseph DeLuca, Special Agent, HSI LA International Airport and Celina Gasparian, DHS/HSI presented on the topic: “From Abductions to Cyberbullying: Protecting Our Children.”
- Eileen Keusseyan, Senior Counsel at Keosian Law LLP spoke on ” The Hidden Dangers of Social Media.”
- Nora Chitilian, M.S., L.M.F.T., Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, shared on the topic: “What Are Our Children Seeking Online?”
Also in attendance, addressing the audience and adding community voices to the evening’s discussion, were:
- Guests Gary Chivichyan, Armenian-American professional basketball player and entrepreneur
- Sona Movsesian, bestsellingauthor, podcast co-host, and media personality
- Sareen Nersis,M.S., BCBA, Board-certified behavior analyst
- Valerie Hambas Sarkissian Founder of Inclusion Matters, a nonprofit organization
Taken together, these perspectives placed children’s online experiences within a wider discussion about family well-being and accountability. The town hall created a setting for questions that can be difficult to raise at home, while drawing attention to the importance of families knowing whom to contact when concerns arise. “Families who believe their child has been harmed by social media or online gaming should have a clear opportunity to understand their legal options. Our role is to listen, review the circumstances, and explain what options may be available.” Said Melkon Rafi Melkonian.
Keosian Law LLP is currently handling litigation related to social media addiction and online gaming, including claims involving Roblox. Parents, guardians and others with questions, or who would like to learn more about the firm’s work in these matters, are encouraged to call (866) 222-2020 or visit the Keosian Law website.
Watch the entire Town Hall on Facebook.