What is Purple Friday?
Purple Friday is the day on which the education sector stands up for diversity, and in particular for the LGBTQI+ community. It is also the perfect moment for GSAs (Gender & Sexuality Alliances) to organise activities and make their voices heard. On this day, thousands of pupils, students, teachers and lecturers wear purple to show their support for the LGBTQI+ community. In the Netherlands, 1 in 8 people identify as LGBTQI+. This means that at your school too, there are children, pupils, students and colleagues who are part of this community. For them, visibility and support are especially important in order to thrive.
But Purple Friday is not just about statistics. It is about a sense of safety: building a school together where everyone can be themselves, without fear of exclusion or bullying. With purple activities, lesson plans, posters and conversation starters, you can help make your school a safer place.
And the materials you use on Purple Friday? You can use them throughout the year to keep diversity and being yourself open for discussion.
Purple Friday for primary education
For primary schools, we have created materials for all year groups. The materials are suited to children's experiences and perspectives. With picture books, lesson plans, videos and animated series, you can show children the diversity that enriches the world. There are also materials to make your school even more inclusive and safer.
Purple Friday for secondary education and MBO
In secondary education and MBO, GSAs and education professionals can work together to raise awareness. We offer lesson packages for education professionals, support materials for GSAs, campaign materials, and tips and toolkits for an inclusive and safe school environment.
Purple Friday for pupils/students
As a pupil or student, you can make a difference yourself. Whether you put up posters, organise a theme day or come up with an activity – here you will find plenty of inspiration and practical tips to get started.
Purple Friday for Higher Education
A Purple Friday manifesto is available for higher education. Institutions can use the manifesto to make their commitment to LGBTQI+ inclusion visible. The manifesto contains concrete action points and pledges that fit the educational context of higher education.