On a day when anti-bullying advocacy took centre stage, the themes of kindness and inclusivity quickly spread through the halls of Penticton Secondary School.
Grade 11 and 12 students from the school's Be Kind Club recognized the nationwide initiative on Wednesday, Feb. 26, by setting up a 鈥淪hare some Positivi-TEA" table.
Members of the club provided cups of tea and entries into a prize draw when other students filled out positive messages on tea bags, which were later displayed on a mural in the school's main hallway.
"This is just a moment for people to be mindful about what anti-bullying is and what Pink Shirt Day is all about," said Sophie Tatham, one of eight Be Kind Club members.
"It also serves as a reminder to always be kind, not just today, because even just a smile can make someone's day," her classmate Kayla Ward added.
Pink Shirt Day, a cause that takes a stand against bullying, has been recognized in B.C. on the last Wednesday of every February since 2008.
Joining several other students in wearing pink shirts, members of the Be Kind Club stressed the importance of making everyone feel included.
"It's important to recognize how much bullying happens, even if we don't see it," said Jordis Hickie. "For example, cyber-bullying happens a lot more often now with text messaging and social media, so it's important to spread kindness and recognize how much bullying affects people."
The students say they began planning the "Share some Positivi-TEA" event months ago.
"It's a day where we recognize those who may have been victims of bullying and wearing these pink shirts may help them feel included and help them realize they're not alone in the battles they are fighting," Tatham said.
The Be Kind Club organizes monthly events at Penticton Secondary.
Dozens of other students visited its "Share some Positivi-TEA" table on Wednesday, in support of the cause.
