International Day of Pink

International Day of Pink History

International Day of Pink seeks to create a more inclusive and diverse world. This day encourages people to challenge social norms, ask more questions of educators, and stand up against bullying. It further aims to show solidarity with the LGBTQ community by encouraging everyone to wear a pink shirt.

International Day of Pink was founded in 2007 by the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity (CCGSD). This day was inspired by two students, David Shepherd and Travis Price. They encouraged their school to all wear pink as a sign of solidarity and to stand against bullying. This day is observed annually on the second Wednesday in April.

Top 8 Facts for International Day of Pink in 2026

• The upcoming observance of the International Day of Pink is centered on the official theme ECHO, which encourages participants to listen to the historical and contemporary voices of the queer and trans communities.
• The 2026 campaign specifically commemorates the 25th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court of Canada case Little Sisters Book and Art Emporium v. Canada, which addressed the systemic censorship of 2SLGBTQIA+ literature.
• This year’s events also mark 25 years since the passage of the Modernization of Benefits and Obligations Act, a pivotal piece of legislation that granted same-sex couples legal recognition and federal benefits.
• Organizers are hosting the ECHO Tour, a multi-city series of events featuring poetry, truth-telling, and conversation aimed at connecting the hardships of older generations with the experiences of today’s youth.
• While often confused with the general anti-bullying message of Pink Shirt Day, this observance is distinct for its specific focus on standing in solidarity against transmisogyny, homophobia, and transphobia.
• The global movement traces its origins back to 2007 at Central Kings Rural High School in Nova Scotia, where students David Shepherd and Travis Price organized a "sea of pink" to support a peer who was harassed for wearing a pink polo shirt.
• The upcoming observance features a collaboration with 2SLGBTQIA+ artists Kendall Gender and Astro Scoville to create limited-edition apparel that supports the advocacy work of the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity.
• Participants are encouraged to engage with a new series of documentaries and curriculum tools produced by the International Day of Pink organization to educate students about the history of resistance and legal progress in Canada.

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day of Pink

Top things to do in the US for International Day of Pink

• Learn how you can get involved in International Day of Pink and make a difference.
• Sign up for a weekly newsletter to stay informed about upcoming events and campaigns.
• Donate to the non-profit International Day of Pink organization to help create a more inclusive world.