Pink Shirt Day 2025 will be observed across Ontario and Canada on Wednesday, February 26, as people wear pink to show support for anti-bullying efforts and promote kindness, inclusion, and empathy.
Held annually on the last Wednesday of February, Pink Shirt Day is a national movement aimed at raising awareness about bullying and encouraging people to stand up for those affected.
This year’s theme, “Let Kindness Grow,” is inspired by the idea of nurturing a culture of empathy and belonging—whether at home, school, or the workplace.
“Just like tending to a garden, together we can each help nurture a sense of belonging where we live, work, and go to school,” said the Pink Shirt Day organization.
The movement began in 2007 in Berwick, Nova Scotia, when Grade 12 students David Shepherd and Travis Price stood up for a fellow student who was bullied for wearing a pink shirt.
In response, they bought 50 pink shirts and encouraged their classmates to wear them in solidarity.
Since then, the initiative has grown into a national and global movement, with Canada officially recognizing the last Wednesday of February as National Anti-Bullying Day.
- Wear a pink shirt on Wednesday, February 26, to show support.
- Join school or workplace activities that promote kindness and inclusivity.
- Support anti-bullying programs by purchasing Pink Shirt Day merchandise, with proceeds going toward bullying prevention initiatives.
According to Public Safety Canada, bullying is defined as intentional, repeated harm in a relationship where there is a power imbalance. It can take various forms, including:
Physical bullying – hitting, pushing, or damaging belongings.
Verbal bullying – name-calling, insults, or threats.
Cyberbullying – harassment or threats through social media, texts, or emails.
A 2019 Statistics Canada survey found that 71% of Canadian youth aged 12 to 17 had experienced at least one form of bullying within a year.
Cyberbullying, in particular, has become a growing concern. Unlike traditional bullying, harmful messages or images online can spread rapidly and follow a person indefinitely.
Toronto lawyer Jasmine Daya warns that cyberbullying can have severe consequences.
“You could be halfway across the world, and if something is said about you online, it follows you regardless of where you go,” she said.
While there is no specific law against bullying in the Criminal Code of Canada, several laws may apply, including:
- Criminal harassment
- Uttering threats
- Identity fraud
- Intimidation
- Defamatory libel
Schools and workplaces have a responsibility to address bullying if it occurs on their premises or through their networks. Failure to take action could result in legal consequences.
Pink Shirt Day reminds us that small acts of kindness can make a difference. Whether it’s standing up for a classmate, speaking out against cyberbullying, or simply wearing pink, every action helps create a safer, more inclusive community for all.