October 20, 2010 
GLAAD organized today as Spirit Day, a day to rally together to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transsexual teens in dealing with the pressures they face just because of who they are.
So why purple?
1. As GLAAD explains, purple is the “spirit” from the rainbow pride flag.
2. Thanks to Jerry Falwell, purple is a color to represent the ridiculousness of fear. Purple is the color of Tinky Winky, the “gay” Teletubby that Falwell denounced as a corrupting influence on young children.
3. Purple, as a color in nature, is more rare than say green or red or yellow or orange. Yet it is still natural. And beautiful.
4. Purple isn’t as common of a color to be worn by grown-ups, so if you see someone wearing it today, it’s probably a conscious effort to say, “We support you.”
5. Wearing purple takes away some of the power of gender stereotypes… pink and purple seen as “girl” colors or associated with being “effeminate.” It opens up a full spectrum to everyone.
6. Purple takes some power away from the bully-ers. You are one person with hurtful things to say. We are a powerful group standing together to send a message… it’s 2010 and intolerance and hatred are NOT okay.
7. Purple can be a color of mourning. Purple shrouds on coffins, or in a church during Lent. And we do mourn those who have died because of hatred and intolerance. Bullying and violence against someone because of his or her sexual identity is wrong.
8. Purple sends a message to those struggling with their identity that you are loved and accepted.
9. Wearing purple on spirit day shows just how many people embrace the idea that your sexual identity is a natural part of you and shouldn’t be repressed, silenced, tortured and tormented.
10. Joining together to wear purple says enough is enough. No more lives should be destroyed by hate.
