Spirit Day

GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) spearheads Spirit Day, which is observed annually on the third Thursday in October (in 2025 that is October 16). Spirit Day is dedicated to standing up against bullying of LGBTQ youth, raising awareness, and showing visible support by “going purple.”

History of Spirit Day

Spirit Day began in 2010, when Canadian teenager Brittany McMillan, deeply affected by a series of well‑publicized suicides among LGBTQ youth, proposed wearing purple as a sign of support and solidarity. Her social media campaign struck a chord, and GLAAD adopted and amplified it, helping it grow into a global awareness movement.

Since its first observance, Spirit Day has evolved into one of the most visible anti‑bullying campaigns worldwide. Millions of people, organizations, schools, corporations, and media outlets participate by wearing purple, changing their online presence, hosting events, and using its message to spark conversations about safety, inclusion, and respect for LGBTQ youth.

Why Spirit Day is important

Many LGBTQ young people face bullying, harassment, social isolation, and mental health struggles, often feeling unseen or unsafe. Spirit Day sends a clear message: you are seen, you are supported, and you are not alone. This visibility can offer emotional relief, hope, and a reminder that caring communities exist beyond one’s immediate environment.

Beyond individual impact, Spirit Day works as a catalyst for broader discussion and action. It gives schools, workplaces, media, and civic institutions an opportunity to re‑examine policies, training, and culture. It encourages allies to speak, to intervene, to educate, and to build environments where LGBTQ youth can thrive rather than just survive.

Here are some ways to understand its importance in everyday life

• it signals to LGBTQ youth that people stand with them
• it invites conversations about bullying, identity and safety
• it challenges institutions to improve policies and supports
• it amplifies voices that are often marginalized
• it helps build a more empathetic, inclusive culture

How to Observe Spirit Day

Observing Spirit Day can be simple yet meaningful. Wear purple—clothing, accessories, ribbons—to show visible solidarity with LGBTQ youth. Change your social media avatar or banner to purple, share supportive messages or stories, and encourage others to do the same. Small acts of public affirmation can ripple outward and help someone feel less alone.

You can also organize or support local events: a purple‑themed gathering, discussion or workshop, art project, or school presentation about kindness, bullying, identity, or inclusion. Reach out to youth groups, educators, or community centers to share resources or help facilitate a safe space for conversation.

Some specific ideas you might try

• wear purple and invite a friend or coworker to do likewise
• post a supportive message or share an LGBTQ youth story online
• host a small talk or discussion about bullying and inclusion
• bring in or distribute resources on safe spaces and allyship
• check in privately with someone who may feel isolated

Spirit Day Dates Table