February 24, 2016, marks Pink Shirt Day, an initiative that originated in 2007 when a ninth-grade student in Nova Scotia faced bullying for donning a pink shirt on his first day of school. In response, two senior students, David Shepherd and Travis Price, took a stand against the bullies.

A Wave of Pink
The duo purchased 50 pink shirts and reached out to fellow students via email, encouraging them to wear pink the following day. Not only did the 50 students wear the shirts, but many others arrived in various pink attire, with some even fully clad in pink. According to the boys, the bullied student appeared visibly relieved, as though a heavy burden had been lifted from him.

Unbeknownst to Shepherd and Price, their actions sparked what would grow into the anti-bullying movement known as Pink Shirt Day. Former BC Premier Christy Clark played a significant role in promoting this day while she was a radio host at CKNW in Vancouver. Today, proceeds from pink shirt sales fund anti-bullying initiatives, and the event has gained international recognition.

The Impact of Bullying
Individuals, both children and adults, who experience bullying often confront numerous challenges, which may include:
• diminished self-esteem
• increased feelings of depression
• heightened anxiety
• experiences of loneliness and isolation
• social withdrawal
• poorer academic performance
• a greater likelihood of substance abuse

A Movement of Kindness
This year’s theme is “Kindness is One Size Fits All.” We can inspire kindness through small, thoughtful actions throughout the entire year, as kindness is always in fashion.

So, what shade of pink will you showcase on the 24th?