SASKATCHEWAN PROCLAIMS DAY OF PINK

Education Minister Russ Marchuk has proclaimed April 10 Canadian Red Cross Day of Pink in Saskatchewan, in support of bullying prevention awareness.

“The best place to start with preventing bullying is through educating and empowering Saskatchewan’s students,” Marchuk said.  “I want to commend the Canadian Red Cross for raising the profile of this important issue, and thank them for the work they do in inspiring a new generation of citizens to take a stand against bullying.”

Day of Pink began as Pink Shirt Day in 2007 when two high school students in Nova Scotia stood up to bullying.  The students asked their peers to wear pink to school after they heard a male classmate had been bullied for wearing a pink shirt.

“We're thrilled that the Government of Saskatchewan is proclaiming April 10 Day of Pink and joining people across the province in taking a stand against bullying,” Red Cross Provincial Director Cindy Fuchs said.  “This day is about bringing awareness to bullying issues and what we can do to create a safe and respectful environment in our communities for everyone.”

Earlier this year, Premier Brad Wall appointed Jennifer Campeau to the position of Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Education.  Her mandate is to assist in the development of a Saskatchewan Action Plan to address the issue of bullying.

“I am eager to support the work of the Minister of Education and the ministry in my new role as Legislative Secretary,” Campeau said.  “I look forward to travelling the province and engaging communities in public consultations to discuss anti-bullying initiatives and strategies.”

For bullying prevention tips and more information about the Red Cross bullying prevention education programs, contact your local Red Cross office or visit www.redcross.ca/RespectED.

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For more information, contact:

Leya Moore
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca