“Wear It Purple strives to foster supportive, safe, empowering and inclusive environments for rainbow young people.” (https://www.wearitpurple.org/our-story)
Wear It Purple was founded in 2010 in response to stories of young rainbow people who were taking their own lives as a result of bullying and harassment. Wear It Purple aimed to show young people across the globe that there was hope, that there were people who did support and accept them, and that they have the right to be proud of who they are.
It is not uncommon for young LGBTQIA+ people to face fear of being rejected or discriminated against.
“We see the statistics of 75% of LGBTQIA+ youth in Australia being bullied due to their identity, 80% of this occurring in our Australian Schools, resulting in LGBTQIA+ youth being 12 times more likely to experience depression and 5 times more likely to experience anxiety. It is worse if we look at intersections like regional, rural, our First Nations and our Trans and Gender diverse kids. Horrendously, 1 in 4 LGBTQIA+ young people have attempted suicide.” (www.wearitpurple.org)
The 2022 theme, Still Me, Still Human summarises the message of humanity, honesty, integrity and authenticity when discussing all diverse identities within the LGBTQIA+ community. The theme reminds us that regardless of labels, we are all human.
Wear it Purple Day is now an international movement of expression, celebration and support. By wearing purple on the last Friday of August, you will demonstrate to hundreds of thousands of rainbow young people across Australia that you see them, you support them, and you respect them.
If you or someone you know are struggling, exploring or questioning their sexuality and/or identity, contact our team at Minding Family Townsville to find out how we can provide further support.
Please contact us on 47238221 to discuss pathways for referral.