We've come a long way, but LGBTQ students still face an uphill struggle
Brendan Goudswaard was called every name under the sun, cautioned against wearing make-up and skirts by his teachers, pushed, shoved and had abuse yelled at him from passing cars.
He came out about a year after the murder of his classmate Jeff Whittington.
He still remembers the shock waves the hate crime sent through his Wellington High School community in 1999.
Social climber
Building framed bunk beds and finishing with curtains, Resene Indian Ink and Resene Colorwood Bark elevates the bach classic. Kids also love them at home. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
Poll: Have you ever been bullied?
People associate bullying with children in schools, but it can actually stretch beyond childhood to workplaces or neighbourhoods.
This Friday is Pink Shirt Day, which began in Canada in 2007 when two students took a stand against homophobic bullying after a new student was harassed for wearing pink. People across the globe are now encouraged to wear pink on this day to take a stand against bullying and promote inclusivity.
Have you or your whānau ever experienced bullying? Share your thoughts on Pink Shirt Day below.
Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.
-
80.8% Yes
-
18.9% No
-
0.3% Other - I'll share below
Riddle me this...
What invention lets you look right through a wall?
*Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.