In a touching tribute to commemorate what would have been Brianna Ghey’s 17th birthday, students at Birchwood High School in Cheshire, where she had been a student, came to school wearing pink, her favorite color. Brianna, a transgender teenager, tragically lost her life at the age of 16 when she was stabbed and killed in Linear Park, Warrington, on February 11th.
Students Share Heartfelt Memories
During the tribute, students at the school shared their cherished memories of Brianna, describing her as “beautiful” and “hilarious.” One student highlighted the importance of remembering her, stating, “I think it’s really important to remember Brianna because she was just so happy and it’s really important to show our respect for her.” Another emphasized the significance of celebrating her life, particularly in a school environment, where mental health is a vital concern.
Supporting Mental Health through Peace in Mind Campaign
As part of the tribute, students had the opportunity to purchase t-shirts, bracelets, and keyrings to raise funds for the Peace in Mind campaign, initiated by Brianna’s mother, Esther Ghey. This campaign supports the Mindfulness in Schools Project (MiSP), which provides additional training to teachers to better assist young people with their mental health. Esther emphasized the challenges young people face in the post-pandemic era and the need for mindfulness in schools to equip them with essential coping strategies.
Challenges in School Prioritization
Esther expressed concerns about the academic-focused approach in schools and the neglect of students’ emotional well-being. She pointed out, “There’s no point in having straight A’s and having crippling anxiety and not being able to actually contribute to society at the end of that.”
Legal Proceedings Continue
Four days following Brianna’s tragic death, two teenagers, a boy and a girl aged 15 at the time, were charged with her murder. Both have pleaded not guilty, and their trial is scheduled for November 27th. Justice Yip emphasized the importance of conducting the trial fairly and calmly, given the case’s emotional nature and extensive publicity.
In honoring Brianna Ghey’s memory and supporting initiatives like the Peace in Mind campaign, the community aims to remember the vibrant young life lost and work towards better mental health support for young people in schools.