#SpiritDay is the world’s most prominent anti-bullying movement, offering hope and inspiration to gender and orientation-diverse youth, especially transgender and nonbinary young people, encouraging them to live their authentic selves with courage. 

SpiritDay, observed annually on the third Thursday of October, is a day of awareness. Started in 2010 by Canadian teenager Brittany McMillan, it was born out of tragedy, responding to a wave of bullying-related suicides, including that of Tyler Clementi. This day calls on us to wear purple as a symbol of affirmation of gender and orientation diverse youth and their families and to raise awareness of bullying behaviors during National Bullying Prevention Month. It also serves as a day of remembrance for those lost to suicide within the Pride community. 

Gay and transgender youth continue to face growing threats of bullying and discrimination. #SpiritDay shines a light on what’s possible when we lead with inclusion, offering a vision of a world where every young person can thrive, be represented, and live authentically. 

On October 17th, millions will wear purple to show their support for youth safety and well-being. By engaging in Spirit Day activities, you can visibly show your support.