Pincher Creek Voice: Day of Pink to be held April 9

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Day of Pink to be held April 9

OUTreach Southern Alberta Society

Day of Pink is an international day against homophobic and transphobic discrimination and bullying in schools, workplaces, and our communities. Individuals are encouraged to celebrate sexual and gender diversity & challenge stereotypes by wearing pink and speaking up on April 9, 2014.

“Recently, we have seen the affects of homophobic and transphobic comments in response to a local arts organization. Fortunately, we have also seen many Lethbridge residents stand up and speak out. To create a more welcoming and inclusive community allies must be active in their support,” said Tyler Gschaid, President of OUTreach Southern Alberta.

Canada's National Safe School Climate Survey found that nearly 70% youth reported hearing derogatory remarks such as "that's so gay,""faggot," and "dyke" every day and felt unsafe or were bullied at school.

Sadly, less than half felt comfortable talking to their parents about the issues.

An Alberta-based website, NoHomophobes.com, tracks and documents thousands of homophobic and transphobic language publically used everyday on the social media program Twitter. While this language might not always be meant to be hurtful, words like “faggot” contribute greatly to the continued alienation and isolation of gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, two-spirited, & queer (GLBTTQ) people, especially our youth.

A new study from UBC School of Nursing reveals Canadian schools with explicit anti-homophobia interventions such as gay-straight alliances (GSAs) may reduce the odds of suicidal thoughts and attempts among both sexual minority and straight students. Research shows that gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, two-spirited, & queer (GLBTTQ) youth who reported higher levels of family/friends rejection were more likely to report having attempted suicide, high levels of depression, and higher mis-use of alcohol and drugs compared with other GLBTTQ youth from families that reported no or low levels of family rejection.

“If we are to build a truly responsible and respectful Canadian society, then we all must stand up and help foster a more just, humane and ethical world. As Canadians, we can't wait for this happen on its own; we need to make it happen right now, and we need to start in our homes, schools, and community,” added Tyler.

OUTreach Southern Alberta (previously known as GALA/LA) serves the gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, two-spirited, and queer community and allies by providing events and programs regarding sexual and gender diversity.

Day of Pink is more than just a symbol of a shared belief in celebrating diversity - it's also a commitment to being open-minded, accepting of sexual and gender diversity, learning to support each other, and creating a welcoming community for everyone.

OUTreach encourages you to show your support and wear something pink - a shirt, scarf, hat, pin, shoes, shoe laces, bracelet, or even a fuzzy pink boa (if you are bold) - on Wednesday, April 9 - Day of Pink.