Residents across Durham Region are being encouraged to stand up to bullying on Pink Shirt Day, a national movement dedicated to promoting kindness, inclusion and respect.
February 25 marks Pink Shirt Day in Canada, and Durham Regional Police are showing their support by wearing pink shirts in solidarity with victims of bullying. Chief Peter Moreira joined officers across the region in taking a visible stand against harassment, intimidation and discrimination.
“Bullying has no place in our communities, and together, we can make a difference,” said Chief Moreira. “Take a stand, be kind, and speak up when you see someone in need.”
Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 in Berwick, Nova Scotia, when two high school students witnessed a younger student being bullied for wearing a pink shirt. In response, they purchased dozens of pink shirts and distributed them to classmates to demonstrate solidarity. The simple gesture sparked a powerful anti-bullying movement that has since spread across Canada and around the world.
Today, Pink Shirt Day is observed in schools, workplaces, community organizations and police services, including throughout Durham Region. Participants wear pink to symbolize their commitment to creating safe spaces and standing up against bullying in all its forms.
While the message applies broadly, Pink Shirt Day has become especially associated with addressing homophobic and transphobic bullying. Advocates highlight the increased vulnerability faced by LGBTQ+ youth and stress the importance of visible support from community leaders, educators and law enforcement.
Durham Regional Police say the message of Pink Shirt Day extends beyond a single day of awareness. Officers regularly work with schools and community groups across Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, Whitby and Clarington to promote anti-bullying education and youth engagement initiatives.
Bullying can take many forms, including physical, verbal, social and cyberbullying. Experts say early intervention, open conversations and community involvement are key to preventing long-term emotional and psychological harm.
By participating in Pink Shirt Day, Durham Regional Police aim to reinforce the message that everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their schools, workplaces and neighbourhoods.
Community members are encouraged to wear pink, support anti-bullying initiatives and speak up if they witness harmful behaviour. Leaders across Durham Region emphasize that building inclusive communities requires ongoing effort, compassion and accountability.
As Pink Shirt Day is observed across Canada, residents are reminded that even small acts of kindness can help create lasting change.
