Today is Pink Shirt Day, a day to encourage everyone to put an end to bullying by spreading kindness.
The impacts of bullying are exponential and result in struggles with mental health, substance abuse, self-esteem, feelings of isolation, educational issues, suicidal tendencies and also physical symptoms.
As a demonstration of support and awareness, a number of Timmins Police Service civilian staff members donned pink attire and donated to this worthy cause.
Everyone has a role to play in calling out bullying be they parents, friends, colleagues, community members, or community leaders, to support the prevention of bullying in our community and IN our workspace.
The key elements to this campaign are as follows
– Make a sincere effort to be aware of bullying to understand what bullying is, and how to stand up against bullying and understand the importance of seeking help if they’re the subject or a witness to bullying.
– Establish open communication pathways – check in with family members, friends, and colleagues, and strive to understand their perspective and feelings about bullying by encouraging honest responses
– Set a positive example by showing kindness and respect in your interactions with others.
-Display a positive presence at school or in work environments, stay up to date with communications and events, and maintain an understanding of bullying and its effects on others.
– Make a conscious effort to be kind to one another and to speak up for those who can’t. Everyone has a responsibility to participate in the fight to stop bullying !
Through awareness and public education, we can make our workplace and community a better place for future generations.