Today is Pink Shirt Day

Pink shirt day celebrates diversity and taking a stand against bullying.

On Feb. 23, we recognize in solidarity on Pink Shirt Day to promote taking a stand against bullying and celebrating diversity. Creating a safe and caring environment for the people around you should be has a top priority.

Pink Shirt Day, which is celebrated annually around the world began in Canada in 2007. This initiative began in a small town in Nova Scotia after two students decided to take a stand against homophobic bullying as a young boy was bullied for wearing a pink shirt to school.

The students went out and bought a bunch of pink shirts and handed them out to other students in school to wear.

By the end of that week, most of the students in the school were wearing pink shirts to show support for the Grade 9 student who was bullied.

This years theme is “Lift Each Other Up” and  which encourages us to have greater acceptance, respect, and inclusion for everyone which is so important. Roughly one in five children are affected by bullying.

Lac La Biche County Peace Officers will be wearing pink shirts today and the County has erected lamp post signs to raise awareness in the Hamlet of Lac La Biche.

Arthur C. Green/Lakeland Connect

The Mayor in the City of Cold Lake says wear your pink shirt today to promote respect.

“Pink shirt day is a opportunity for everyone to promote respect and kindness towards all individuals,” Mayor Copeland said. “By wearing pink we are speaking against bullying in schools, workplaces, online and at home.”