Many people across the United States will wear purple today, October 20th, to honor the tragic deaths of six boys. These boys were bullied because of their sexual orientation and consequently took their own lives.

The Wayland High School Gay-Straight Alliance is bringing this event to Wayland High School, with hopes that it will raise awareness throughout the student body.

“Wearing purple doesn’t actually change anything,” said senior and GSA member Emma Gimlich.  Instead, the GSA hopes that the event will encourage people to ask questions about why others are wearing purple, which in turn will help make the student body more aware.

The event will also serve as a message of tolerance to all students at the high school, especially ones who may have been previously uncomfortable with sharing their sexuality.

“I think it’s a terrific idea,” said WHS Vice Principal Bayard Klimasmith. “We’ll see if it works!”