Yesterday, The Archewell Foundation unveiled the Lost Screen Memorial in New York City—a deeply moving art installation honoring the lives of children lost to online harm. As part of the Foundation’s No Child Lost to Social Media campaign, led through The Archewell Foundation Parents’ Network, the memorial is a powerful call to action for urgent online safety reform.
Prince Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, attended a private vigil at the site, standing in solidarity with nearly 50 families whose children were commemorated in the installation. These families—many of whom have been working closely with the Duke and Duchess for several years—are part of a deeply connected and resilient community built through The Parents’ Network. They are a powerful representation of the thousands of families who have lost their children to online harm. This long-standing partnership has created a space for shared grief, advocacy, and action, as these parents work together to transform personal loss into meaningful change.
The installation features 50 illuminated lightboxes, designed to resemble smartphones, with each displaying the lock screen photo of a child whose life was cut short by digital dangers. These images serve as both a tribute and a stark reminder of the human cost behind online harm. A virtual version of the memorial is available online, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with each child’s story, including personal voice messages from their families.
This tribute builds on over four years of work by the Duke and Duchess in the digital safety space, reflecting their continued commitment to creating a safer digital world. Together, they have championed responsible technology, advocated for policy reform, and walked alongside grieving families—listening, learning, and amplifying their voices. Both have remained deeply involved in these efforts—not only as advocates, listeners, but ultimately parents—engaging with families, amplifying their voices, and helping to shape a more compassionate, accountable digital environment.
The Lost Screen Memorial also serves as a poignant extension of the Duke’s remarks at the 2024 Clinton Global Initiative, where he called for immediate action to protect children online. In his speech, he shared that his own lock screen features a photo of his children—a reminder of what’s at stake for families everywhere.
The memorial furthers the mission of The Archewell Foundation Parents’ Network, a cornerstone of the couple’s efforts to build safer online communities. Through this initiative, the Foundation continues to provide resources, support, and a collective voice for families navigating the complex challenges of parenting in a digital world.
Open for 24 hours, the Lock Screen Memorial invites families, advocates, and changemakers to pause, reflect, and honor the lives of children gone far too soon—and to renew our collective commitment to protecting those still here.