It's a shame in this day and age that a topic like this still has rise to the forefront. But it does, and sadly it affects many lives in a negative way.
Joining the ranks of many in the province, the Government of Saskatchewan has officially proclaimed the week of March 30 to April 5 as Pink Revolution Anti-bullying Week. The Ministry of Education says it is demonstrating its support for anti-discrimination efforts with a focus on events and initiatives coinciding with this officially proclaimed week.
Pink Revolution is a new Saskatchewan-made event intended to promote diversity, prevent bullying, and take action to make our world a safer place. Organizers say when you get involved and wear pink, you spread the message that bullying, violence, and discrimination are not okay!
Pink Revolution Week kicked off in Saskatoon on March 12 and had a subsequent flag raising ceremony on April 1. This Saskatchewan made event was co-ordinated by the Anti-bullying Network, which is comprised of the Boys and Girls Club, The Avenue Community Centre, Youth Launch, Restorative Action Program, Saskatoon Police Service, Affinity Credit Union, and various local school divisions. Ministry officials attended both the launch and the flag raising to offer greetings and show support.
Pink Shirt Day co-ordinated through Red Cross is another initiative that is supported by the ministry and by the Government of Saskatchewan.
"These events are opportunities for communities and individuals to come together for one common goal: to celebrate diversity and to stand against discrimination," Education Minister Donna Harpauer says. "The Government of Saskatchewan believes that all students have the right to a caring, respectful and safe school environment where bullying is not tolerated."
And that's a goal we should all strive for.
When the week has come and gone and we're not sporting the color of the theme we can all still "think pink" and do our part to stop bullying. Together we can create a safer Saskatchewan, one that's inclusive to all and the best place to call home.
Pink is where it's at!
