Released on April 9, 2014
Education Minister Don Morgan has proclaimed April 9, 2014, as Red Cross Day of Pink in Saskatchewan to raise awareness of bullying and to support bullying prevention efforts.“Day of Pink will encourage students to stand up for their peers and will give strength to those affected by bullying,” Morgan said. “The Government of Saskatchewan supports many anti-bullying initiatives, and we are proud to team up with the Canadian Red Cross for Day of Pink and to help put a stop to what is such a painful reality for many people.”
In 2007, two Nova Scotia students encouraged their peers to wear pink in support of a male classmate who was being bullied for wearing a pink shirt to school. It became a national movement and evolved into what is now Day of Pink.
“Today, during Red Cross Day of Pink, more than 20, 000 people across the province will be wearing pink to raise awareness of bullying issues and what we can do to create safe and respectful schools and communities,” Canadian Red Cross in Saskatchewan Provincial Director Cindy Fuchs said. “We’re thrilled that the Government of Saskatchewan is recognizing this important day.”
In November 2013, the Government of Saskatchewan released its Action Plan to Address Bullying and Cyberbullying which gives students, families and schools the knowledge, skills, resources and supports to help children and youth to feel safe and accepted at school, in the community and online. The 2014-15 budget allocated $815, 000 in funding to further support the recommendations in the Action Plan.
For bullying prevention tips and more information about the Red Cross bullying prevention education programs, contact your local Red Cross office or visit www.redcross.ca/RespectED.
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For more information, contact:
Kelly Johnston
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: kelly.johnston@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506