Pink Shirt Day is an initiative that originated in Canada and has since gained international recognition as an anti-bullying campaign. It began in 2007 in Nova Scotia, Canada, when two high school students, David Shepherd and Travis Price, decided to take a stand against bullying after witnessing a fellow student being bullied for wearing a pink shirt.
David and Travis took action by purchasing and distributing pink shirts to their fellow students, encouraging them to wear pink as a symbol of solidarity against bullying. The idea quickly gained traction, and on the designated day, hundreds of students showed up wearing pink shirts, sending a powerful message of support to the victim of bullying and promoting kindness and inclusion in their school community.
On February 28, in honor of Pink Shirt Day, schools, Delta Chamber, associations, care homes, and businesses embraced the pink shirt, and all it represents.
Over 1,900 elementary students from various schools in Delta came together to witness the thrilling Battle of the Badges hockey match, featuring teams from Delta Fire & Emergency Services and the Delta Police Department. The purpose of this event is to spotlight the importance of uplifting one another in the fight against bullying.
With statistics showing that one in five students experience bullying, Pink Shirt Day serves as a poignant reminder for everyone to practice kindness, support each other, and advocate for those who may not have a voice. Through the spirited competition of Battle of the Badges, Delta’s Police and Fire Departments aim to underscore the significance of solidarity against bullying. They aim to show that despite differences in appearance or roles, every individual deserves respect. Embracing diversity and unity empowers us all. By raising awareness about anti-bullying, the Fire and Police Departments aspire to encourage students to embrace kindness and empathy in all aspects of life.
This annual event is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Delta Fire & Emergency Services, the Delta Police Department, the City of Delta, and the Delta School District.
