Cecille on Purple Friday at Saxion: ‘You belong in this world; otherwise, you wouldn’t be here’

On Purple Friday, observed every second Friday in December, Dutch students wear purple clothing to show support for the challenges many LGBTQ+ youth face due to their sexual orientation. These challenges include bullying and violence. Studies by institutions like Radboud University and the Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis reveal that LGBTQ+ youth face significant hardships. For example, the suicide attempt rate among LGBTQ+ youth is five times higher than among their heterosexual peers, and there is a scientifically proven link between bullying and high suicide rates in this group.

Bullying and discrimination

These alarming statistics underscore the importance of support and solidarity, a sentiment echoed by Cecille Plomp, media advisor at the Saxion Video Unit and an aspiring spiritual caregiver within our university: “It’s essential to continue raising awareness about issues that are always lurking in the background, such as exclusion, bullying, and discrimination. These have a profound impact on people’s lives. First and foremost, we are all human. We all do beautiful and less beautiful things in our lives. We are not perfect. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to this day, year after year.”

Am I allowed to exist?

Purple Friday also holds personal significance for Cecille. “In my calendar, I noticed that this day is also called ‘Spirit Day.’ I find that very fitting, especially now that I can work at Saxion to support the spirit—the spiritual well-being of students. Saxion’s spiritual care team supports students grappling with questions like: Am I allowed to exist? What is my purpose? And especially that first question, whether you are allowed to exist, is something many of us consciously or unconsciously struggle with. Perhaps we’re not proud of ourselves or happy with who we are. This could be due to being bullied in the past or being excluded daily because of how we look or what we represent. Such experiences can leave deep scars on our souls.”

Active hope

Cecille is hopeful, particularly because of the symbolic significance of a day like Purple Friday. Does she believe this initiative contributes to the mental health and social safety of Saxion students and staff? “Everyone knows the feeling that their small contribution might seem like a drop in the ocean. But I believe that’s not true. I believe in active hope. Everyone can make a difference, no matter how small. We all have the ability to spread peace and love. There’s no shortage of peace and love; you just need to share it. Then it already exists. I’m reminded of a quote by the well-known monk and peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh: Peace in yourself IS peace in the world.”

Never forget

For Cecille, her purple clothing accent extends beyond Purple Friday. “I wear this purple scarf every day with joy. It originally belonged to a patient of my sister, who worked in a rehabilitation center at the time. The woman who owned this scarf has since passed away. My sister spoke of her with great affection. I often receive compliments on this scarf, and I share this story whenever I can. In this way, this woman is not forgotten.” Cecille wholeheartedly encourages wearing a purple garment or accessory to mark Purple Friday. “If wearing the color helps, if lighting Saxion in purple or organizing various activities makes a difference, then absolutely do it! Let’s paint the world purple today. It’s clear we need it. And we all need a little love.”

Three compliments

What message does Cecille want to share with students and colleagues? “Mahatma Gandhi said it beautifully: The future depends on what we do in the present. You can start with something small right now. Give three compliments each day to the people you encounter. It’s wonderful to see each other. We need one another. Meaning can be found in everything. If you open your eyes in the morning, wouldn’t it be great to think with a smile: Yes, this is what I’m going to do today. I’m grateful. But I worry that many of us don’t feel that way. That’s why Purple Friday is important—to keep focusing on our surroundings and ourselves. Dare to wear purple. You matter. You belong in this world; otherwise, you wouldn’t be here!”