Statement by NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair on the International Day of Pink

 On this Day of Pink against discrimination, homophobia and transphobia in schools and communities, New Democrats will be wearing pink to stand in solidarity with gay, lesbian, transgender and transsexual youth, as well as victims of harassment and bullying. 

Discrimination, in all its forms, has a disastrous impact on youth who are singled out for being different or for standing out, but also on communities as a whole. 

Canada has been particularly shaken by recent suicides of youth in reaction to bullying. Such tragedies cannot be tolerated and, as a society, we must do everything in our power to prevent such tragedies from repeating themselves. 

Fortunately, communities are becoming more and more aware of this issue, and bullying is less and less tolerated. This is mainly thanks to the efforts of young students who have and continue to lead the way in anti-bullying campaigns across the country and in speaking out against acts of violence towards their peers. 

The New Democratic team is committed to taking on the issue of bullying within Parliament and in the communities, with an increased focus on education and awareness. We believe that we need to combat bullying by addressing the problem at its root. We welcome initiatives such as the Day of Pink and the work of the non-profit organization Jer’s Vision. 

Today, I invite everyone to wear pink to show their support to all victims of discrimination. I also encourage people to get involved in making their community a safer place and in fighting acts of bullying, not just today but every day of the year. The change starts with each one of us. 

Together, we can stop bullying!

-Thomas Mulcair, Leader of the Official Opposition
New Democratic Party