Valerie Hallam
Dear editor:
In reply to the letter “Scandalous” from Mr. Jerome Johnson (Fort Frances Times, April 27).
Oh dear, Mr. Johnson . . . where have you been? Time and the world have moved on.
I am quite confident in suggesting that no parents of these children “forced” them to wear pink T-shirts on Wednesday, April 13—the day known in Canada as the “Day of Pink.”
In fact, I even would go so far as to say that these children, boys and girls, wore pink shirts or some other visible pink symbol because their hearts were filled with love, kindness, and acceptance of diversity, and their brave message was “We will not tolerate bullying.”
Bullying is everywhere so when I see that even these young children are standing up against it, I am feeling pretty darn proud of them. Mr. Jerome Johnson, I believe you missed the point.
When I first learned the “Day of Pink” began with two Grade 12 students standing in support of their bullied younger gay classmate, I thought, “Well done, guys!” for standing up for what was right.
The day is meant to raise awareness for diversity and to combat bullying, homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny.
You stated in your letter, “So keep it where it started–in high schools.” I say people everywhere, and of all ages, should be standing up to bullies and raising awareness for diversity and bullying.
Mr. Johnson, I think you missed the point again. Pink is just a colour, nothing more, nothing less. Oh my, you sound somewhat intolerant.
Mr. Jerome Johnson, please get a grip. Help end bullying–kindness is one size fits all.
(Signed),
Valerie Hallam
Fort Frances, Ont.
