The RCMP of the South Okanagan are taking a stand against bullying in support of National Pink Shirt Day taking place Feb. 28.
It doesn’t matter if the bullying takes place in person, at work or school, online or in the community, it is still bullying and as a province and community we should not tolerate it, said local police.
The Penticton and South Okanagan Similkameen RCMP support Pink Shirt Day and stand with the community to fight against this negative behaviour.
“As police officers we often see the negative effects of bullying both in our schools and in the community,” said Supt. Beth McAndie, OIC of the Penticton Okanagan Similkameen Regional detachment.
Bullying can be any unwelcomed or aggressive behaviour that often makes a person uncomfortable, hurt or scared. It often has long term effects either physically, socially or psychologically not only on the victim but the bystanders who witness it.
Raising awareness around bullying and taking a collective stance on zero tolerance allows people to be a part of the solution, not the problem.
“On Feb. 28th, I hope you’ll join us in wearing pink to show your support and lift each other up,” said McAndie.
The RCMP also reminds parents to speak to their children about bullying to ensure they aren’t silent victims.
READ MORE: Pink Shirt Day: Bullying affects adults in B.C. too