The volunteers and staff of BullyingCanada, Canada’s First Youth-Created Anti-Bullying Website are deeply saddened by the recent suicide deaths of American students, Asher Brown, Seth Walsh, Justin Aaburg, Billy Lucas, Cody Barker, Tyler Clementi, and Raymond Chase; and Canadian youth, Chantal Dube and Jeanine Blanchette. We extend our sympathy to their families and friends and to all people who share their loss.
“The deaths of these youth because of their sexual orientation should not be occurring in this day and age. This should be a tragic reminder that we need to step up to the plate and ensure that youth are not harassed or bullied for any reason including their sexual orientation,” said Rob Frenette, Co-Founder of BullyingCanada
“As a student who was bullied, I know what it’s like to not want to live anymore. It doesn’t matter if you’re gay or straight, it should never get to the point where you want to or if you do indeed take your life,” added Katie Neu, Co-Founder of BullyingCanada
October 20th will mark a day of wearing purple in memorial of the GLBT youth who have committed suicide in recent weeks/months due to homophobic abuse in their homes and schools. Purple represents Spirit on the LGBTQ flag and that’s exactly what we’d like all of you to have with you: Spirit.