Over the month of February, and throughout the year, the national Pink Shirt Day movement aims to raise awareness about bullying, as well as raise funds to support programs that foster children’s healthy self-esteem.
On Feb. 28, members of the Okanagan College community will be wearing pink shirts for Pink Shirt Day, an idea that started with a simple act of support by two high school students in Nova Scotia who stepped up when a classmate was bullied for wearing a pink shirt to school.
It’s a simple concept – wear a shirt of a specific colour to highlight a difficult issue. It’s a simple action of making a choice when getting dressed in the morning to help bring attention to this issue. What is not simple is the ongoing challenge to be watchful, to recognize bullying and harassment and to take a stand when we see it.
Pink Shirt Day is a single day, but the experience reported by 1 in 3 of our youth, and over 30 per cent of adults, of being bullied or harassed is often pervasive and can have a negative impact for a lifetime.
This single day highlights the need for all of us to be mindful, to make choices to actively stand against bullying and harassment and to make those choices every day. Let a student, a friend, or a colleague know that you understand the importance of being kind and the impact that bullying can have. Learn more about the resources posted on the OC website and help them access supports. We all have a role in helping someone feel supported and safe on Pink Shirt Day and every day.
Wear your pink shirt on Feb. 28 to take a stand against bullying and harassment and to show your support for vulnerable members of our communities. Pink shirts are available to purchase at OC Bookstores.
With one in five students affected by bullying, chances are that you or someone you know is being impacted. Find resources at pinkshirtday.ca/resources.
If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying or harassment at Okanagan College, we want to know.
We also want you to know that help is available. Whether or not it’s related to bullying, if you are feeling stressed, sad, anxious or depressed, please reach out to the services and supports below.
Counselling Services offers an array of resources for students.
Library Services also has resources to promote student success and well-being.
The Employee and Family Assistance Program (also known as EFAP, operated by Homewood Health) is not just for emergencies. As part of your benefits package, eligible employees of Okanagan College, along with their dependents, can access employee assistance through Homewood Health.
Okanagan College is committed to ensuring a working and learning environment that is free of discrimination, harassment and bullying, and supports a collegial environment that is characterized by mutual respect, safety, civility and free inquiry.