2nd Annual Spirit Day Memorializes LGBT Youth

Thursday, October 20th, 2011

The NOH8 Campaign joins GLAAD and hundreds of thousands of organizations, businesses, students, and individuals all over the world in going purple today - October 20th - in recognition of Spirit Day (#SpiritDay). The annual event began as a Facebook event in 2010, created by Canadian teenager Brittany McMillan.

"On October 20th, we will wear purple in memory of the recent gay suicides. Many of them suffered from homophobic abuse in their schools or in their homes. We want to take a stand to say that we will not tolerate this. Purple represents Spirit on the LGBTQ flag, and that's exactly what we'd like all of you to have with you: spirit.

Please know that times will get better and that you will meet people who will love you and respect you for who you are, no matter your sexuality. Please wear purple on October 20th to remember all the lives of LGBTQ youth that have been lost due to homophobia. Tell your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors and schools." - Brittany McMillan

Unfortunately, even one year later, recent stories like Jamey Rodemeyer's continue to act as a painful reminder that bullying and homophobia continue to push our youth to their limits. By simply sporting the color purple, you're telling everyone who understands the significance that you support the LGBT community and recognize the painful struggles GLBT youth have endured at the hands of homophobia.

Whether it's a purple shirt, a purple bracelet, a purple ring, or anything in between -- your support is crucial to raising awareness and putting an end to the bullying that has led to far too many LGBT teens taking their own lives.