Messages to promote kindness and prevent bullying are being shared over social media in recognition of Pink Shirt Day.
The national anti-bullying and awareness movement started in 2007.
The St. Clair Catholic District School Board (SCCDSB) launched the #HumanConnectionChallenge, which is running this week, to coincide with Pink Shirt Day. The challenge focuses on kindness, anti-bullying, and anti-hate. Resources have been made available for students who are learning from home and in the classroom.
"The board has developed resources for use during this week to help students reflect on and learn more about how human connection positively impacts our wellbeing and how disconnecting from technology can improve mental health," read an emailed statement from the SCCDSB.
Schools within the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) also observed Pink Shirt Day. The public school board said the messaging shared on Wednesday builds on what was shared during Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week in November.
"To report bullying, students are encouraged to share information with a caring adult at home or at school," read an LKDSB statement. "Parents/guardians and students are also able to share concerns using the Student Wellness and Bullying Intervention Hotline at each school. Together we will continue to support safe, welcoming and inclusive learning and work environments."
Local first responders, OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrrique, and politicians also shared anti-bullying messages.
Please join @SarniaFire in taking a stand against bullying. #PinkShirtDay is about lifting each other up through kindness, acceptance and inclusivity. Captain Eddleston, Lucky and Clover are all showing their support. Let’s all be kind to each other. #StopBullying @pinkshirtday pic.twitter.com/m0rcqbErJm
— Sarnia Fire Rescue (@SarniaFire) February 23, 2022
The OPP encourages everyone to visit Kids Help Phone this #PinkShirtDay to learn more about what you can do to prevent bullying. Please share this information. It might help someone you care about. https://t.co/0ozliDuAKI pic.twitter.com/k837olfsVJ
— Thomas Carrique (@OPPCommissioner) February 23, 2022
On #PinkShirtDay, we stand together against all forms of bullying in the workplace, in schools and online. °°Today, and everyday, we need to spread love and unity. °°I encourage everyone to #LiftEachOtherUp and look beyond our differences and celebrate what make us unique. pic.twitter.com/bL1T8bpXhJ
— Monte McNaughton (@MonteMcNaughton) February 23, 2022
Today is Pink Shirt Day to support anti-bullying efforts. Together we can shift from a bullying and division to unity, kindness, and respect. pic.twitter.com/AWO1CQLeyT
— Marilyn Gladu (@MarilynGladuSL) February 23, 2022
No one deserves to be bullied. Everyone should feel safe and supported wherever they go regardless of their race, faith, sexual orientation or background.
Let’s all do what we can to end bullying & cyberbullying and build a more inclusive province for everyone. #PinkShirtDay pic.twitter.com/7PzW6CVkWZ— Doug Ford (@fordnation) February 23, 2022
