Red Cross Pink Week Declared in Swift Current

Swift Current City Council has proclaimed the week of February 21st to 27th as Red Cross Pink Week, the goal to eliminate bullying in schools and all across the community.

Dwinell Stevenson and Laura Beddome of Red Cross made the presentation to council, saying the organization believes bullying is a community issue and the responsbility to address it relies on us.

"The Red Cross believes education and awareness are the keys to bringing an end to bullying and violence in our communities," said Beddome. "Red Cross provides education in school divisions, work places and various places in the community and province. Over the next five years we want to reach all children in Saskatchewan with the message of 'Imagine No Bullying'."

Students within Swift Current will be taking part specifically in Red Cross Pink Day, which is slated for Wednesday. Some local businesses and workers at City Hall will wear pink in support that day, with Stevenson encouraging more to join in the cause.

"We're pleased to tell you all city schools will be participating again this year so students and staff are encouraged to wear pink that day or the official Pink Day shirt. They'll host their own events and activities. Support in the business community continues to grow year after year and we're also pleased to announce the front line staff at City Hall will be donning their pink shirts as well in support."

Mayor Schafer approved the request to proclaim the week, and spoke on why it is important year after year.

"When you mention education and awareness after living here 13 years, there is a lot of repeat proclaimations that come and it is so important to keep hitting everybody between the eyes with information like this because it finally sinks in. When it comes to kids, we think of broken limbs, cancer, kids deal with issues from bullying everyday and it can have a lifetime impact. I appreciate the work the Red Cross is doing and the impact it is having in our community."