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World Semicolon Day · April 16

A day to pause.
A reason
to connect.

For the stories still being written.
For the people we remember.

Every April 16, our community makes space for hope, remembrance, and honest conversations about mental health. You’re invited to be part of it.

World Semicolon DayApril16
Every year.
Every story matters.
Community members showing their semicolon tattoos together
A shared date. A deeply personal meaning.

More than a date on the calendar

Room for hope.
Room for remembrance.

World Semicolon Day brings people together around a message with many personal meanings: your story isn’t over.

For some, the day is a celebration of continuing. For others, it holds grief, a memory, or a quiet wish to feel less alone. There is room for all of those experiences.

Take part publicly or privately, with other people or in a moment of your own. There is no single right way to belong.

Why a semicolon?

Choose what feels right for you

Small gestures.
Personal meaning.

You don’t need to organize an event or share something deeply personal to take part.

01

Share a little
of your story.

A sentence, a piece of art, or a photo can express what the semicolon means to you. Share only what you’re comfortable making public.

Share with our community On social media: #WorldSemicolonDay
02

Make space
for a memory.

Write a name, light a candle, listen to a meaningful song, or spend time with someone who understands. Remembrance can be quiet.

Explore creating a memorial
03

Reach toward
connection.

Check in with someone. Listen without asking them to explain everything. Make room for an honest answer and a next conversation.

Explore our groups

In your community

Make a little room
for one another.

A meaningful gathering can be simple. Start with care, a clear invitation, and space for people to choose how much they share.

Discuss an idea with us
A small gathering

Choose a welcoming, accessible place. Tell people what to expect: time to connect, an optional creative activity, or a moment of remembrance.

Make listening a valid way to participate. Ask before taking or sharing photographs, and have local support information available.

A thoughtful post or creative project

Begin with what the day means to you. A drawing, a short reflection, or a message of support can be enough.

Get permission before telling someone else’s story. Pair the message with a useful resource, and let people know they can participate without disclosing personal experiences.

Find information to share
A tattoo shop or artist

If you’re an artist or shop owner, explore joining the tattoo partner directory. Clearly communicate your designs, pricing, appointment process, and age requirements.

Offer a respectful experience without asking clients to explain the story behind their tattoo.

Explore becoming a tattoo partner
A semicolon tattoo drawn into a small heart on a wrist

The symbol is one way to take part

A mark you choose.
A meaning you keep.

Some people mark the day with a tattoo. Others draw a semicolon, make something, or carry the message privately. The choice belongs to you.

Explore the tattoo shop directory Check dates, prices, and availability directly with the shop.

A few things to know

You’re welcome
as you are.

Do I need a tattoo to take part?

No. A tattoo is one expression of the message. Reading, remembering, connecting, or quietly reflecting are ways to participate, too.

Can I participate outside April 16?

Yes. April 16 gives our community a shared moment each year. The conversations, support, and personal meaning can continue year-round.

Do I have to share my experience publicly?

No. Your story belongs to you. You can choose what to share, who to share it with, or to keep it private.

Are all tattoo shops offering an event or discount?

No. Each shop sets its own participation, pricing, and availability. Contact the shop before making plans; a directory listing does not confirm an April 16 event or a discount.

Explore all our programs Your story is part of what makes this day matter.