The anti-bullying message of Pink Shirt Day fit right in with what students at St. Mary’s elementary school have been learning throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pandemic “has shown the importance of helping one another and advocating for those who need it,” said principal Brenda Krivuzoff. As students wore pink shirts to school Feb. 24, they talked about standing against bullying and lifting one another up in trying times.
Student council members started the day with a prayer and a skit meant to “encourage one another to follow Jesus’ example in their words and actions towards one another,” Krivuzoff said.
The community also participated in interactive dance sessions led by the organization DANCEPL3Y and wrote inspiring messages on the pink leaves of a “caring tree” on display near the school’s main entrance.
“It was an uplifting experience for all.”
St. Helen’s Elementary also participated in Pink Shirt Day by decorating the school and sharing inspiring messages.
“We chose wings as our Pink Day symbol because it represented friendship between us and friendship with God through his angels,” said an article co-written by three students, Ella Ho, Gabriella Kroll, and Calista De Zen.
“Students made a commitment to practise friendship qualities such as kindness, listening, having a sense of humour, and forgiveness. They also gave ‘affirmation feathers,’ pointing out the friendship qualities they see in their classmates.”
Groups of students were also invited to choose a class motto to remind them of their commitment to act kindly towards others. Mottos chosen included: “Spread love everywhere you go” (Mother Teresa); “He will send his angels to protect you” (Psalm 91:11); and “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14).
