By Jesse Omozusi
On the 25th of August Newington students were asked wear casual clothes and include a touch of purple in support of the Wear It Purple campaign. This event is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a symbol of support, empowerment, and inclusivity for LGBTQ+ young people. Wear It Purple Day encourages individuals to don casual clothes with a touch of purple to raise awareness about diversity, inclusion, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth.
Wear It Purple finds its roots in a heart-wrenching reality. Founded in 2010, the initiative was a response to the tragic stories of young individuals who took their own lives due to bullying, harassment, and lack of acceptance of their sexuality or gender identity. Co-founded by Katherine Hudson and Scott Williams in 2010, Wear It Purple emerged as a beacon of hope and solidarity. Its mission was clear: to create a world where young individuals could thrive in safe, supportive, and inclusive environments. The founders wanted to ensure that no young person should ever feel isolated or unloved due to their identity. Thus, Wear It Purple, serving as an annual reminder that love, support, and acceptance are fundamental rights for everyone.
On the day, Students will have the opportunity to contribute a gold coin donation, which will go towards supporting Wear It Purple’s mission of educating and promoting diversity and inclusion. In the spirit of celebration, students who embody the Wear It Purple spirit will also have the chance to win the “Best Wear It Purple” award and cafeteria vouchers.