The “safety pin” symbol was inspired by the 2014 #illridewithyou movement in Australia where people offered to sit with Muslims who felt threatened on their commutes due to fear of an Islamophobic backlash after a terrorist attack in Sydney. A similar concept (#safetypin) was designed after British people and immigrants received harassment and attacks from other Brits following the Brexit split.
In the U.S., following the 2016 election, many American citizens do not feel safe. There has been harassment and bigotry displayed to women, African Americans, Muslims, Mexicans, LGBTQ people, and immigrants. It’s a frightening time. But let’s change that!
Wear a safety pin on your shirt or coat to show solidarity, support, and offer safety to each another. This symbol indicates that you’re a safe person to sit next to on public transportation, walk next to, speak to, or offer safety in public. Please share this widely to help keep each other safe.
#IStandByYou
