On Friday 29 August, Canberra will light up in purple as we join thousands of Australians in celebrating the 15th anniversary of Wear It Purple Day – a vibrant, youth-led movement that empowers LGBTIQA+ young people to dream big, speak boldly, and shine bright.
This year's theme, "Bold Voices, Bright Futures," calls on all of us to recognise the power of visibility, support, and allyship in shaping a future where LGBTIQA+ youth are safe, respected, and celebrated. From schools and universities to workplaces and community centres, Canberrans are coming together to show LGBTIQA+ young people that they are seen and valued.
"Wear It Purple Day is a joyful reminder that every young person deserves to feel proud of who they are and who they're becoming. In Canberra, we're wearing purple and following the lead of young people who are championing inclusion in our city," said Acting Minister for Disability, Carers and Community Services, Michael Pettersson.
The ACT Government continues to lead the way through its Capital of Equality Strategy 2024–2029, which aims to make Canberra the most welcoming and inclusive city in Australia for LGBTIQA+ people. This includes undertaking reform that protects and empowers LGBTIQA+ people and supporting peer-led organisations and inclusive community events.
As part of the Strategy's First Action Plan, the ACT Government partnered with the Victorian Government to deliver the Unsaid Says A Lot campaign - an Australian-first initiative co-designed by trans and gender diverse communities. The campaign highlights everyday actions that foster inclusion and equips bystanders with tools for better allyship.
Other key initiatives include:
- Amendments to the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1997 to improve processes for trans and gender diverse young people.
- Investment in the ACT component of the Writing Themselves In 4 study, providing insights into the health and wellbeing of 300 young sexually and gender diverse young people.
- Support for the Safe and Inclusive Schools Initiative, helping ACT schools create affirming environments for LGBTIQA+ students.
- The launch of a new peer support initiative to improve the wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people with disability, backed by a $451,000 investment over three years.
- Funding through the Capital of Equality Grants Program, including:
- Support for Rainbow Mob, an LGBTIQA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation for LGBTIQA+ young people.
- A grant to Belconnen Youth Centre to run ballroom dance lessons for LGBTIQA+ youth.
"Visibility is super important. It matters, no matter what form it takes. Young Black trans kids do not have enough role models–Wear It Purple Day can provide an avenue for people to see themselves, which we need as young Black trans kids are dying," said Shawnah Cady, Director of Rainbow Mob and Co-Deputy Chair of the LGBTIQA+ Ministerial Advisory Council.
Canberra's celebrations will include youth-led art showcases, community events, and purple-themed pride parties. Today, everyone can join the movement, proudly wear purple and celebrate bold voices and build bright futures together.
