Although we take pride in our differences in race, gender, sexual orientation and religion, Canada has the ninth highest rate of bullying among teens (Canadian Institutes of Health Research.) Forty-seven per cent of parents report having a child who is a victim of bullying.
Pink Shirt Day, an anti-bullying campaign, aims to abolish those statistics through education, understanding and acceptance.
What started off in 2007 as two teens standing up to a bully who was picking on a student wearing a pink shirt has blossomed into a movement.
Out in Schools supports youth in their struggles all year round. It works with schools and communities to bring youth from isolation to a place where they feel safe.
The program is an avenue for students to express feelings or emotions they may not have avenues for, says Richard Housser, corporate relations officer for Out on Screen.
Last year, Out in Schools made over 100 presentations to over 10,000 students across BC.
Meanwhile, Pink Shirt Day is February 26. Taking a stand against bullying is as easy as wearing pink.
Here's 30 Day Adventures blogger Marc Smith's video about why it's so important to take part. "Nobody deserves to be bullied for being different," he says.
