More than 3,000 schools join Paarse Vrijdag as acceptance of gay people falls
More Dutch schools than ever wore purple in support of LGBTQ people on Friday, while a study by Utrecht University and the Trimbos Institute found only 22 percent of boys now hold a positive attitude towards homosexuality.
More than 3,000 primary schools, secondary schools and mbo colleges took part in Paarse Vrijdag (Purple Friday) on Friday, more than ever before, according to COC, the LGBTQ interest group that coordinates the day. Students and teachers wear purple to show support for LGBTQ people and for a school where everyone can be themselves.
COC director Marie Ricardo called the turnout "heartwarming" (hartverwarmend).
The day comes as acceptance of homosexuality among young people has dropped. A study published at the end of September by Utrecht University and the Trimbos Institute, among 11- to 16-year-olds, found that in 2025 22 percent of boys held a positive attitude towards it. Among girls the figure fell from 78 percent in 2021 to 51 percent in 2025, while among boys it halved over the same period.
COC says the focus of the day has shifted in recent years from celebrating diversity towards information and conversations. It offers teaching and support material to schools.
In the classroom
At the Maris College Bohemen in The Hague, a vmbo school, a graphic designer asked pupils to stick stickers on banners to answer questions such as whether everyone may decide for themselves who they fall in love with. School leader Nicole de Jong joined the talks. "Isn't it interesting to talk about it? Then we understand each other better," she said.
At the Esdal College in Emmen, student Femke Ros (18) said the fall in acceptance worries her. "I find it worrying, because it will mean fewer people feel comfortable," she said.
Teacher Joey Verhaar said people do not choose to be different. "This is who you are. You may show it, and you may be treated respectfully for it," he said.
Follow the story: COC
COC
COC is a Dutch interest group that works for the rights and acceptance of LGBTQ people. In this article it coordinates Paarse Vrijdag (Purple Friday), the day when schools show support for LGBTQ students and staff. It is also active in areas such as education and social safety.
mbo (middelbaar beroepsonderwijs)
Mbo is Dutch secondary vocational education, where students train for a specific profession or trade. Students usually start after vmbo, and many are 16 or older, so mbo colleges teach a mix of teenagers and adults. It is one of the main routes into work and further study in the Netherlands.