Pucker Up: January 12 is International “Kiss a Ginger” Day

In the United Kingdom, gingers (or the more politically correct term, redheads) are often bullied, teased, and beat up. Just for being different. But International “Kiss a Ginger” Day in the U.K. is looking to offer some support and love to this much-maligned sect.

“Kiss a Ginger” Day started off in 2009 as a way to counteract “Kick a Ginger” Day, which was created in 2008 and sadly, resulted in numerous flame-haired children being assaulted at school. Ginger Derek Forgie decided it was time to spread some love and landed on January 12 as the day to fight back against ginger discrimination.

The big event of the day is the “Kiss a Ginger” party in London, where redheads get drink discounts, free food, and goodie bags. Last year’s event attracted over 120 gingers from all around the U.K. Some notable British gingers include Prince Harry, singer Ed Sheeran, and actors Rupert Grint (ahem, Ron Weasley) and Eddie Redmayne. And that’s not even taking into account Scotland’s famous redheads.

A website, Hot For Ginger, is spreading the message of “Ginger Love” while promoting “Kiss a Ginger” Day and sharing other pro-ginger events and news. There is also a blog with posts about gingers at The Oscars, Gingers of the Year, and even a photography exhibit devoted entirely to gingers.

As expected, Twitter exploded with pro- “Kiss a Ginger” tweets and hashtags, even a Twitter handle (@Kiss_A_Ginger) devoted to the special day. Even celebrities and TV shows got in on the act. Guess gingers all over the world better pucker up!

Tomorrow… #MysteriesofLaura #KissAGingerDay pic.twitter.com/J3KPKh0hjy

— Jerry O'Connell (@MrJerryOC) January 12, 2016

It’s #KissAGingerDay
I’m in all day. Just saying.

— Mark Gatiss 💙 (@Markgatiss) January 12, 2016

Happy #KissAGingerDay
Please get consent first.
Gingers are still people.

— BRY (@BryOnTour) January 12, 2016

Today is #KissAGingerDay or, if you're Rory Williams, Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/orMfQ9sXq9

— Doctor Who on BBC America (@DoctorWho_BBCA) January 12, 2016