This Friday, 28 August, workplaces, schools and community groups around the country will mark Wear It Purple Day to show their support for LGBTQIA+ young people.
Wear It Purple was founded in 2010 by Australian students Katherine Hudson and Scott Williams in response to concerns about bullying, discrimination and poor mental health outcomes experienced by LGBTQIA+ young people. What began as a grassroots campaign has grown into one of Australia’s most visible expressions of support for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
This year’s theme, Colours of Courage, recognises the ongoing courage shown by a resilient community that expresses pride in who they are in the face of harmful behaviour.
How to get involved
Participating doesn’t need to be formal or elaborate; it can be as simple as:
- Wear purple on the day
- Host an event at your workplace or in your community
- Download free resources such as posters, social media tiles or educational materials
- Fundraise or donate to support Wear It Purple’s year-round community work
- Start a conversation about the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of your community or workplace.
Serving with pride
For veterans or families of veterans who are also members of the LGBTQIA+ community, the Defence Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Information Service (DEFGLIS) is a great place to connect with those with a shared lived experience.
DEFGLIS is a non-partisan volunteer charity that supports LGBTIQ+ serving members, ex-service members, and veterans of the Australian Defence Force, as well as families of veterans. Over the years, DEFGLIS has worked with Defence to strengthen peer networks, inclusion initiatives, and educating the broader ADF community about LGBTQIA+ matters. This broader cultural shift has seen members of the ADF march in uniform at Sydney’s Mardi Gras Parade.
If you’re looking for more information, support, or connection, visit the DEFGLIS website or call us on 1800 823 922.
