Throughout the month of February, the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) and other central Alberta agencies will be spreading messages of anti-bullying ahead of Pink Shirt Day on February 28, 2024. 

Pink Shirt Day aims to raise awareness of bullying behaviour and the unhealthy impacts it can have on others.

A recent study conducted by the World Health Organization surveyed the health behaviours of school aged children around the world and found that Canada ranked in the middle of 35 countries studied for level of bullying. 

Elementary school boys report higher levels of bullying than girls but lower levels of victimization. In middle and high schools, boys reported bullying others almost twice as much as girls in the same grades. 

Bullying is a relationship problem that involves a power imbalance, which is why it can be so challenging to overcome it by ourselves. Regardless of where bullying happens – in school, the office, at home or in the community – there are people and resources that can help. 

Employers can establish policies clearly defining bullying and harassment, the organization’s response and the resources that are available. They can also share information with all employees at meetings, online or through print resources and display prevention and support information in areas where your customers or clients can see it or take it with them. 

To prevent and curb the levels of bullying, professionals recommend that both youth and adults role model healthy relationships within their communities. Listening and showing empathy, kindness, honesty, and respect; and being helpful, and cooperative can be the foundation of strong social supports. 

As part of CASASC’s mission to provide preventative, educational programs, the CASASC education team has compiled a resource package for teachers, principals and other leaders to assist in planning anti-bullying and pro-social messages throughout the month of February.