App will allow users to “go purple” on social media.
GLAAD, the world’s LGBTQ media advocacy organization, announced the launch of the “Go Purple for #SpiritDay” app, powered by Toyota Financial Services.
The free app allows users to take part in Spirit Day, the largest and most visible anti-bullying campaign in the world supporting LGBTQ youth, by making their social media profiles purple. The app also offers anti-bullying resources for students, parents, and educators. “Go Purple for #SpiritDay” is available for Apple and Android devices.
“Taking a stand against bullying shouldn’t be scary and it shouldn’t be something you have to do alone,” said Mike Groff, president and CEO of Toyota Financial Services. “Across the Toyota family, we are proud to once again join GLAAD and millions of others around the globe in going purple for Spirit Day on October 20th and for always standing against bullying. And we’re particularly proud to continue our sponsorship of the Spirit Day app which, not only allows users to turn social media pics purple, but more importantly, gives students, educators, parents and friends access to great information on how to address bullying behavior.”
Millions wear purple on Spirit Day, taking place on October 20, as a sign of support for LGBTQ youth and to speak out against bullying in all forms. Spirit Day was started in 2010 as a response to young people who had taken their own lives. With GLAAD’s help, Spirit Day has since garnered widespread support from celebrities, TV news and entertainment programs, corporations, organizations, schools, local communities, and even national landmarks.
According to a 2015 GLSEN survey, more than half of LGBTQ students report being victimized based on sexual orientation, with a further three quarters of students who report hearing homophobic remarks in school. Overall the report stated that the rates of LGBTQ bullying in the U.S. remain troublesome.
