Nobody likes a bully.
In Canada, and increasingly around the world, the last Wednesday of February is recognized as Pink Shirt Day. This year, Pink Shirt Day is February 25th, 2026.
The aim of Pink Shirt Day is to raise awareness and money to combat bullying. CUPE Ontario stands with anyone who has been targeted, singled out or made to feel unsafe at school, at work or in their community.
Bullying isn’t “just teasing.” It’s abuse of power. It thrives when people are isolated, when supports are cut, and when leaders model cruelty instead of respect.
Doug Ford has done exactly that. He uses his platform to demean those he disagrees with, including labour leaders, rival politicians and even constituents! The Ford Conservatives tried to strong-arm workers with heavy-handed, punitive legislation, like caping wage increases with Bill 124, and Bill 28 which attempted to impose a contract and strip education workers of their right to strike.
Pink Shirt Day is also a reminder that bullying often targets folks for who they are, especially among the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Students and workers deserve to be safe, respected and included, without fear of harassment or backlash for their sexuality or gender.
Equity isn’t a talking point. It’s a lived right that must be acted on. This Wednesday, CUPE Ontario encourages everyone to wear pink, check in on someone who might be struggling, and speak up when you see harm.
