The Importance of Pink Shirt Day

Did you know that Aotearoa New Zealand has the third highest rate of school bullying among 36 OECD countries? And last year, one in five workers faced bullying often?

Pink Shirt Day promotes kindness, respect, and inclusion in schools, workplaces, and communities. It helps raise awareness about bullying and how harmful it can be. Talking openly makes it easier to see different types of bullying, like verbal, emotional, or online abuse. The day sends a clear message: kindness and respect are for everyone. Wearing pink shows support and helps create a positive environment. Pink Shirt Day gives communities, schools, and organizations a chance to talk about bullying and mental health. It also highlights the importance of respecting diversity, including different sexual orientations and gender identities. This is part of a bigger effort to make safe spaces and promote acceptance of LGBTQ+ friends and family.

Pink Shirt Day reminds us how bullying can hurt others deeply. It encourages everyone to work together to stop bullying and to promote kindness, understanding, and inclusion across Aotearoa.

Bullying affects mental health, but help is available. At The Fono, we have professionals who support the mental health and wellbeing of both adults and children.

No one should face bullying alone. So if you or your child need support, please reach out.

Email our friendly Healthy Minds team at talanoa@thefono.org

Click here to find out more about our Healthy Minds - LagiOla service.

And for more information about Pink Shirt Day in Aotearoa please visit -