Bulletin
Pink Shirt Day Messaging for MoveUP Members: Talking with Children About Mental Health & the Real Costs of Bullying
February 25, 2026
To: MoveUP Members
Note: This bulletin includes information on a sensitive topic matter.
Pink Shirt Day is a powerful reminder that bullying — whether at school, online, or in our communities — can have devastating impacts on a young person’s mental health. Today, we stand not just against bullying, but for compassion, respect, and open conversations about mental well-being.
In British Columbia, there have been heartbreaking cases of young people taking their own lives after being the victim of bullying and harassment:
- Hamed Nastoh, March 2000, age 14.
- Dawn‑Marie Wesley, November 2000, age 14.
- Amanda Todd, October 2012, age 15.
- Lexi Blackwood, January 2026, age 12.
These tragedies remind us why Pink Shirt Day matters — and why every conversation about kindness and mental health counts.
How to Talk with Kids About Bullying & Mental Health
Make feelings normal to talk about.
Let your children know it’s okay to feel hurt, overwhelmed, anxious, or sad — and that talking about feelings is a strength, not a weakness.
Ask open questions early and often.
Keep it simple:
- “How are things at school?”
- “Is there anyone who makes you feel unsafe?”
- “What does kindness look like to you?”
Teach empathy and bystander courage.
Encourage your child to stand up with others — to reach out to peers who seem isolated, and to speak up when they witness unkind behaviour. Kindness isn’t passive; it’s active.
Watch for signs of struggle.
Changes in sleep, appetite, mood, energy, school performance, or social connection can be signs a child needs support. Don’t wait to ask: “How can I help?”
Model respect and care at home.
Children learn more from what we do than what we say. Show them how you handle conflict, support others, and seek help when needed.
Available Supports in B.C.
If your child or someone you know is struggling:
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or TEXT CONNECT to 686868 — free, confidential support for young people up to age 20.
- YouthInBC crisis line: Lower Mainland: 604-872-3311 / Toll-Free: 1-866-661-3311 (chat and phone).
- 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: dial 988 in Canada — immediate support if someone is in crisis.
- Your school counsellor, Family Doctor, or Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) can also be vital support resources.
Together, we can help raise a generation that understands solidarity, practices kindness, and knows that their mental health matters.
In solidarity,
Brenda Chu & Christy Slusarenko
Co-chairs, Human Rights & Cultural Diversity Committee