Today is International Day of Pink. This day is an annual anti-bullying event not to be confused with Pink Shirt Day (more on that later). The purpose of International Day of Pink is to create a more inclusive and diverse world. The goal is to raise awareness of the discrimination and bullying against those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. On the second Wednesday in April, people around the world are encouraged to wear pink to show support for this community and do what they can to fight for equality and acceptance for all.
Awareness During a Pandemic
On Monday, Premier Doug Ford announced that schools will remain closed after this week of spring break is over. When kids will return to in-person learning is unknown at this time. But just like many other events and observances during the pandemic, International Day of Pink has created a workaround. This year’s theme is Level Up on Love and everyone is still being encouraged to wear pink clothing and approach awareness from a virtual perspective. That mean using social media, gaming, and other forms of virtual connection to spread the message of anti-bullying.
How to Get Involved
So how can YOU show your support for International Day of Pink? Tag your anti-bullying posts with #dayofpink or #JourneeRose. Share the video below to promote inclusivity. Post to @dayofpink on Twitter. Use these media markers in conjunction with your pink clothing so any online activity you participate in raises awareness. There are also animated GIFs, badges, video call backgrounds and images on the Day of Pink website that can be used and shared in an effort to spread the anti-bullying love.
The Canadian Connection
Still wondering about the difference between Pink Shirt Day and International Day of Pink? Both were inspired by the same 2007 incident. Read our Pink Shirt Day blog to learn how a couple of stand-up teenagers in Nova Scotia started a global campaign against bullying. International Day of Pink is specifically about the bullying that occurs due to anti-homophobia and anti-transphobia. The Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity (CCGSD) started the International Day of Pink in response to a gay student being bullied. This Ottawa-based organization has a mission to empower gender and sexually diverse communities through education, research, and advocacy. They’ve created a downloadable booklet with resources related to this initiative for personal use or to share with someone who may find it helpful.
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In the GTA
International Day of Pink is globally recognized and is definitely supported here in its origin country. Locally, the Toronto District School Board supports the day by “encouraging staff and students to wear pink to raise awareness to stop discrimination, gender-based bullying, homophobia, and transphobia”. Although schools in Ontario are closed today—and for the foreseeable future—the TDSB will honour the day by raising the rainbow flag at their headquarters in North York. They’re also making the main page of their website pink! It’s all part of their commitment to a more inclusive and diverse world. If you’re not already wearing pink today, show your support by doing so and telling anyone who doesn’t know that today is International Day of Pink.
