National Unity Day is celebrated on Wednesday, October 16 and is part of National Bullying Prevention Month, which promotes kindness, acceptance, and inclusion to prevent bullying. We encourage everyone to wear and share the color orange as a visible message that our society wants to prevent bullying. The color orange is chosen for its association with safety and visibility, and because it is commonly identified with October and the autumn season. The day serves as a catalyst for everyone to come together with a visual statement that actions matter not only on one day, but every day.  But why is this day special at the BNI? 

It was Dr. Gertrude Barber’s vision that we must provide hope and opportunity to individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral health challenges. She initiated and we continue today this emphasis on the importance of kindness and inclusion, which aligns with the values promoted during National Bullying Prevention Month. 

So, when you look around on October 16 and you see lots of orange, you’ll know why and perhaps you will wear orange that day!