The anti-bullying message is getting through in Christchurch today, where representatives of queer youth group Q-topia have set up a stall at a local mall, resplendent in pink, to ensure locals are aware of Pink Shirt Day. Board member Akira Le Fevre (pictured in the pink bowtie) says the group is raising awareness at Riccarton Mall. He says the mall is starting to get busy and a few donations are being made and conversations about anti-glbti bullying are being sparked. “We’re selling some rainbow bands and we’ve got some information about Q-topia and Pink Shirt Day,” Le Fevre says. “Stand up to bullying,” is his Pink Shirt Day message. “Whether you’re a victim or a witness, stand up to it and don’t get let it go unseen. Today is about making people aware there is no need for bullying. It’s about letting people know what they do makes the difference.” As for his outfit and the pink bowtie, “it’s amazing what you can buy for three bucks,” he says. At 7PM Le Fevre will ditch the bowtie and throw on some heels to become alter-ego Aunty Pipi, who will lead a pink walk through the mall, with marchers coming from Q-topia and the city’s rainbow community. “We’re going to have a fun night, walking through the mall and just being pink,” he laughs.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 18th May 2012 - 12:07pm