Writer’s Note: What is pink shirt day? If you have forgotten or need a refresher, pink shirt day was a movement created by Canadian students who decided to stand up for a student getting bullied for wearing a pink shirt. These two students decided to stand up to the bully by also wearing pink and encouraging other students around their school to wear pink as well. This event eventually grew to become an anti-bullying event worldwide.
On February 26, we had our annual pink shirt day. In the halls, there were pink post-it notes with kind messages written on it and at lunch in the cafeteria, the real fun began! Walking into the cafeteria, you could find crowds of people, which is pretty normal, but lots of people had gathered around to play games and listen to music. People were able to sing along and try to shoot bean bags onto a hoop placed on a chair. Meanwhile, two students stood on a table to hype up the crowds.
Part of the goal of this event was to “spread positive vibes” according to one of the students running the photo booth. Yes, there was also a photo booth where students were able to dress up with fun accessories and take pictures.
In addition to a photobooth, around the cafeteria, you could also find a face painting station that had pink gem stickers you could stick onto the outer corner of your eyes.
“It’s very good that we are trying to raise awareness for this issue and how we are doing our best efforts to prevent things like that (bullying) from happening,” says a grade 9 student.
Students were also able to get free heart-shaped chocolate (because nothing tastes better than free food), free hugs with a huge teddy bear and take a picture with the Storm mascot. There was also a contest where you had to follow the Richardson leadership Instagram account and use #JCRPINKSHIRTDAY2020 for a chance to win a $10 gift!
“I like the teddy bears, the Hershey kisses, and the feeling of inclusion” comments a grade 10 student.
Overall, this event was filled with positivity and was enjoyed by many of the students who were able to attend. It clearly demonstrated the kind and welcoming community that is of the JCR students and staff.
