Thousands in Airdrie and beyond are wearing their best pink shirts today (February 28th) to raise awareness on the issue of bullying.

Many in the community from members of City Council to local bullying advocates and students are speaking out on the dangers of bullying and what the community can to do to combat it.

Councillor Kelly Hegg says that through his years as an educator and in public office, he's seen the city embrace this important message.

"It's something that we're proud to be a part of and just to raise awareness about bullying and the different kinds of bullying there are and the role that everybody has in bullying situations." 

One of the most encouraging parts of the message, according to Hegg, is how it's not only students that are sharing it.

"Because of this awareness, you just can't stand back and watch it happen, you can't be a silent partner. I think you're starting to see it more and more with the seniors and adults as well."

One local advocate that continues to share her message towards bullying is Caitlin Prater, the creator of Positive Post-It Day. Prater hopes that the message will go beyond just one day of the year.

"It's more than just a shirt, it's about learning to be kind to each other. If we can do that, that is one of the biggest aspects of combating bullying itself."

Prater says that there's one key element that she has used in their anti-bullying campaigns.

"It has to do a lot with kindness. Whether it be a pink shirt or a post-it or even just buying someone's coffee ahead of you in a line. There are so many things that we can do every day to help combat bullying."

Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 at a school in Nova Scotia, after a grade nine student was bullied for wearing a pink shirt, prompting his classmates to wear their own pink shirts to support him. 

Questions, comments or story ideas? Email us at news@discoverairdrie.com