Today (22 February) is Purple Friday, but why do we celebrate the last Friday in LGBT History Month?
History
Every February marks LGBT History Month, a chance to celebrate and spotlight LGBT history and culture in Scotland and further afield.
On the last Friday of the month it is Purple Friday. This day is an opportunity to stand up against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia as well as showing support for LGBT+ equality.
The day first originated in Canada in 2010 and is named after the purple stripe on the LGBT rainbow flag that is recognised around the world.
In Scotland we support LGBT Youth Scotland on this day by standing for equality, inclusion and making our country the best place for LGBT+ youth to grow up.
Did you know each colour in the LGBT+ flag has a meaning? Red means life, orange means healing, yellow means sunshine, green means nature, blue means harmony and purple means spirit.
Catalyst
This LGBT History Month the theme is CATALYST: 50 years of activism. The theme marks the 50 year birthday of the modern pride movement and the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising in New York during 1969.
It is important to remember the people and events that kick-started this movement in the past, but now it is time to make even more positive change.
This year’s theme is all about being a catalyst for change today and pledging your support for LGBT+ equality. Simply use #LGBTCatalyst on social media to show your support.
Get involved
Getting involved with Purple Friday is simple: Sign up to the LGBT Charter.
The charter is a programme that enables your school or organisation to include LGBT+ people in every aspect of your work and learning.
This is done by protecting staff and providing high quality service to customers and students.
Signing the charter sends a positive message that you are a champion of LGBT inclusion and that you support the LGBT+ community.
Once you have pledged your support you can help turn the map purple.
Take a photo of yourself and pin it on LGBT Youth Scotland’s interactive map to help turn the entire country purple and celebrate inclusion.
How are you celebrating Purple Friday? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram.
