News release

Stand Up Against Bullying Day Proclaimed

Education (July 1999 - March 2013)

To help send a strong message against bullying in Nova Scotia's schools, colleges and universities, the province has proclaimed the second Thursday at the start of each school year as Stand Up Against Bullying Day.

The inspiration for the day came from the actions of Central Kings Rural High School Grade 12 students Travis Price and David Shepherd who rallied behind a new student to the school who was being bullied simply for wearing pink.

"The actions of these two young men, along with their fellow students who wore pink to school in support of another student, are showing all Nova Scotians just how much of a difference individuals can make," Premier Rodney MacDonald said. "It is an honour to acknowledge their creative and selfless efforts by proclaiming a day at the outset of each school year to relay such a positive message against bullying."

Premier MacDonald and acting Education Minister Jamie Muir were joined at Province House today, Sept. 25, by Mr. Shepherd and Mr. Price for the proclamation signing.

Mr. Muir said, "The department has been actively working on initiatives to help with bullying, but to have two students come forward with an idea like this is such a boost to the cause as it comes from the students for the students."