Pink Shirt Day 2021: Wear Pink, Stand Against Bullying

In 2009, a Nova Scotia student was bullied at school for wearing a pink shirt. His classmates decided to support him by wearing pink t-shirts in response—and Pink Shirt Day was born.

This year, SFU faculty, staff and students are encouraged to wear pink on Wednesday, Feb. 24 as a promise to practice kindness and stand against bullying in all its forms. Pink Shirt Day is a reminder for all of us to look beyond our differences and celebrate the things that make us unique. We also encourage you to check out research compiled by the Faculty of Education on the impacts of bullying—and how we can work together to stop it.

If you don't happen to have a pink shirt, never fear: you can download and use this custom Zoom background to show your support instead.

In addition, on Feb. 24, security will be handing out resuable pink face masks in the following spots across SFU's three campuses:

• Burnaby: AQ, WMC and Blusson Hall Access Points
• Vancouver: Harbour Centre Security Booth
• Surrey: Main Security Access Point

Resources

Pink Shirt Day is also a reminder that it's okay to reach out for help if you're need it. Here are some resources that are available to the SFU community:

For students

• My SSP: students can access free 24/7 mental health support through call and chat through the My SSP app
• Support Over Suicide & Students In Distress: this workshop will provide you with a brief introduction on how to recognize potential signs of distress and/or suicide risk, how to provide immediate support, and how to make appropriate referrals
• See a Counsellor: free, confidential, time-limited supports are available to all registered SFU students
• 8 Ways to Build Resilience Video Series: learn the six building blocks of cultivating resilience
• Bouncing Forward Online Course: a free, non-credit Canvas course designed to help you build resilience and enhance your well-being
• Make SPACE: Emotional Health: a short introduction to keeping emotions in balance to enhance your overall well-being

For faculty and staff

• COVID-19 resources: resources for leaders, staff and parents on topics like remote working, mental health and well-being, and more
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): the SFU Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provides confidential, professional assistance to help you or your family members resolve problems that affect your personal and work lives

For those looking for social connection

• Meet, Greet, and Eat: a place for SFU students to take a lunch break and participate in online creative crafts and games
• Creative Collective: The Creative Collective provides SFU faculty, staff and students with opportunities to connect, relax, and unwind through crafts, motion, music, and more