The International Day of Pink is recognized at the Toronto District School Board and around the world in support of creating a more accepting, inclusive and diverse world by encouraging TDSB students and staff to stand up against bullying, discrimination and harassment directed towards 2SLGBTQ+ communities. International Day of Pink began in 2007 when a teenager faced homophobic bullying at a Nova Scotia high school for wearing a pink t-shirt and students organized to wear pink as an act of solidarity. It is now a day of action on the second Wednesday in April every year.
TDSB has a duty to create spaces which reflect the lived experiences, histories and perspectives of 2SLGBTQ+ communities. We must and will continue to engage and welcome diverse gender identities and, to support the protection and promotion of the human rights of 2SLGBTQ+ students and staff in all schools and workplaces. The TDSB’s Human Rights Policy and the Ontario Human Rights Code protects all staff and students from discrimination and harassment based on gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation.
This day is particularly important given the increasing levels of homophobia, transphobia and biphobia in our communities and schools.
All members of TDSB are encouraged to wear pink on this day as a way of demonstrating positive support and solidarity with 2SLGBTQ+ communities as we strive to make sure that all individuals regardless of their identity are treated with dignity and respect and enjoy access to education without discrimination. This is another step towards making sure that every student and staff member feels a sense of belonging in our schools.
Pictured: RH McGregor’s 700+ students and staff celebrating International Day of Pink this week.