Spirit Day 2025: Stand Up, Speak Out, and Go Purple

Thursday, October 16, 2025, is Spirit Day — when millions of people around the world wear purple to take a stand against bullying and show support for LGBTQ+ youth.

What began as a single student’s act of compassion has become a global movement of visibility and solidarity — and it’s one we can all take part in.

🌈 The History Behind Spirit Day

Spirit Day started in 2010, when Brittany McMillan — then a high school student in Canada — wanted to honor several LGBTQ+ teens who had died by suicide after facing bullying and harassment.

She encouraged people to wear purple, the color that represents “spirit” on the Pride flag designed by Gilbert Baker, as a symbol of love and acceptance for LGBTQ+ youth everywhere.

The idea spread rapidly across schools, workplaces, and communities — and today, GLAAD leads the annual campaign, bringing together millions of allies who go purple every October to show that kindness and visibility matter.

💬 Why It Still Matters

Even today, many LGBTQ+ young people face bullying, rejection, or isolation simply for being who they are. Spirit Day is more than a social media hashtag — it’s a visible reminder that we all have the power to create safe, supportive environments where everyone feels they belong.

Wearing purple might seem like a small gesture, but it sends a clear message:

You are seen. You are valued. You are not alone.

If you’re looking for more data on the impact of bullying and mental health in LGBTQ+ youth, visit The Trevor Project’s 2024 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health.

And if you want to make a difference year-round, check out these resources from the AICPA and other organizations to help with creating inclusive workplaces — because real change starts with the culture we build every day.

💜 How to Participate on Thursday

• Wear purple — to work, school, or in your video calls.
• Change your profile photo or banner to purple.
• Post a message of support using the hashtag #SpiritDay.
• Speak up when you see bullying or exclusion, both online and in real life.
• Encourage others in your firm or community to join in and learn more at glaad.org/spiritday.

🌟 A Call to Action

This week — and every week — let’s continue to support organizations doing critical work for LGBTQ+ youth, including GLAAD, The Trevor Project, and GLSEN.

Together, we can turn one day of purple solidarity into a year-round culture of respect, inclusion, and belonging.