Update: Due to thunderstorms, the game was rescheduled to Saturday, Aug. 25 at 8 p.m. The Be the Light event will still be going as planned.

The first varsity football game of the season is Friday, Aug. 24, featuring not only the football team, but also the “Be the Light” event that is raising awareness for suicide prevention during the day and at the game.  

Students are asked to wear either teal or purple in support of the movement, organized by SADD member and junior Lucy Morris.  

“Both my cousin and my grandpa died by suicide so [the movement] has a special place in my heart,” Morris said. “I picked suicide prevention because I think it’s a topic that is too often ignored. Statistics actually show that talking about mental health issues benefits those who are struggling, so it’s important to address the issue and make it known that there are people out there who want to help.” 

According to the World Health Organization, one person dies from suicide every 40 seconds. 

“Be the Light began this year when I started it as my Girl Scout Gold Award project,” said Morris. “It’s the highest award a Girl Scout can get.” 

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. 

“I hope that this event will encourage not only students, but the community to be a light in someone’s darkness,” Morris said.