Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative
Pontiac schools are gearing up to embrace the spirit of Pink Shirt Day on February 28, a global movement that originated in 2007 in Berwick, Nova Scotia. The initiative was sparked by two Grade 12 students, David Shepherd and Travis Price, who took a stand against bullying by urging peers to wear pink shirts in solidarity with a student who was bullied for wearing one. This act of kindness and unity has since spread across the globe, championing the fight against bullying.
At Onslow Elementary in Quyon, teacher Selina Gervais said: “We’re encouraging students and staff to wear pink shirts and are holding different activities in classrooms. For example, in my grade one class, I’m reading books about kindness, having discussions and a sharing circle.”
Dr. Wilbert Keon School in L’Isle-aux-Allumettes held a workshop about bullying led by Les Maisons des jeunes du Pontiac on February 22. Students also watched videos and discussed bullying, said teacher Klinda Brennan.
The Western Québec School Board’s Anti-Bullying/Anti-Violence Report for the 2022-2023 school year highlighted the prevalence of bullying and violence in schools, with 552 reports of bullying and 1,023 incidents of violence across the board. Rural elementary schools reported 42 incidents of bullying and 149 incidents of violence.
In 2023, the Quebec government announced $30 million over five years to prevent and counter violence and bullying in schools. Education Minister Bernard Drainville emphasized the importance of documenting incidents, training, raising awareness, and supporting students, teachers, and staff to ensure schools remain safe and secure environments.
According to the Institut de la statistique du Québec, approximately 12% of Quebecers aged 12 and over experienced bullying or cyberbullying in 2022. The study revealed that young people aged 12 to 17, individuals with diverse sexual orientations, transgender and non-binary persons, Indigenous persons living outside communities, members of visible minorities, people with disabilities, and those with low household incomes are among the most affected groups.
As schools in the Pontiac and across Quebec continue to celebrate Pink Shirt Day, they’re sending a powerful message of unity, respect, and compassion, reinforcing the importance of standing together against bullying and creating a safer, more inclusive environment for all students.