Why Events Like “Wear It Purple Day” Are Important Beyond the Queer Community
This blog has been prepared for you by registered psychologist and psychosexual therapist, Carla Jones (who coincidentally looks awful in purple, but, ya know, whatever!).
Every year, Wear It Purple Day brings a splash of colour and a powerful message to schools, workplaces, and communities across Australia. What began as a youth-led initiative to support LGBTIQAPSB+ young people has grown into a nationwide moment of visibility and solidarity. But its importance stretches beyond rainbow flags and affirming queer identities. I argue, in fact, that EVERYONE can benefit from the intended outcomes of Wear It Purple Day!
I know, I know. There are plenty of queer events and awareness days on the calendar. And it can be overwhelming. So, as always, there is an invitation to participate depending on your own energy levels. We all know that lived experience advocates and staunch allies deserve a break too.
But for those who are ready to follow the charge with me, here’s why I think events like Wear It Purple Day matter not just within the queer community, but far beyond it.
1. It builds a culture of inclusion for everyone.
When we make space to affirm LGBTIQAPSB+ people, we’re doing more than supporting one community, we’re helping shape a world where everyone gets to feel safe being themselves. Queer folks have always lead the way when it comes to being exactly who they are, and how incredible would it be to promote a culture where everyone gets to do the same!
Inclusion isn’t pie. Making room for marginalised voices doesn’t diminish others, rather it strengthens our collective wellbeing. Events like Wear It Purple Day signal that difference is not something to fear or hide, but something to respect, celebrate, and learn from.
2. It challenges the systems that harm all of us.
Queerphobia and ignorance don’t just harm queer people, they are part of broader systems of control, shame, and exclusion that impact everyone, especially those who don’t conform to dominant norms.
Whether it’s strict gender roles, harmful ideas about sex and relationships, or pressure to “fit in” at the expense of authenticity, these systems are harmful to mental health and community connection (side note: I do have a shirt that says “It was probably the patriarchy”, and this feels quite relevant!). Naming and dismantling them is a win for all people.
3. It helps young people thrive (queer or not!).
Wear It Purple Day started with a focus on young people, especially in school settings where being different can feel unsafe. When a school or organisation participates, it sends a clear message: “You matter, and you’re not alone.”
But this message isn’t limited to queer youth. It’s a powerful reminder to all young people that diversity is valued, that kindness is courageous, and that standing up for others is part of growing into the person you want to be. And with youth mental health challenges and loneliness on the rise, this feels like a preeeeeety important message to be hearing!
4. It invites everyone to reflect and grow.
Events like Wear It Purple Day aren’t just for “allies” to show up, they are opportunities for meaningful reflection. What assumptions do we carry about gender or relationships? Where have we been silent in the face of exclusion? How can we do better? And it’s not about shaming or feeling guilty. It’s about taking that quiet moment to learn and grow.
These days, if done right, can invite conversation, humility, and learning. These are not only skills that serve every one of us in our relationships, but they make our school, workplaces, and communities stronger!
5. It creates ripple effects of safety and belonging.
When people witness others showing up visibly for a marginalised group, it opens doors. It creates a sense of permission to ask questions, to connect, and to be more of oneself. This openness and safety can be a total gamechanger.
The ripple effect of seeing a purple shirt or a supportive message online can be profound, especially for someone who’s never felt safe to be fully seen. And the more we create these ripples, the closer we get to communities where no one is left behind!
Beyond a single day
Wear It Purple Day is a symbol, but its meaning lives in what happens next. The policies we advocate for (even right here in Queensland!), the conversations we initiate, the courage we cultivate to listen and to show up with integrity. It’s about building communities where safety, diversity, and authenticity aren’t special occasions, they are the baseline.
So even if you don’t identify as part of the queer community, you’re still part of the change. The world needs strong and affirming parents, families, allies, teachers, health professionals etc etc.
When we create a world where queer young people thrive, we all do. Simples!
