I Press On is adding a semicolon to its logo. Here’s why. In 2013, Amy Bleuel started Project Semicolon. Project Semicolon works to prevent suicide by “raising public awareness, educating communities, and equipping every person with the right tools [to save his/her own life]”. Bleuel explains the significance of the semicolon this way: “In literature, an author uses a semicolon to not end a sentence but to continue on. We see it as you are the author and your life is the sentence. You’re choosing to keep going.”
The semicolon is symbolic. It means that “your story isn’t over”. Some supporters of Project Semicolon tattoo a semicolon on their bodies. The semicolon tattoo signifies community amongst those who know the message, and a conversation starter for those who don’t. (learn more) Even though the tattoos might be similar, they represent a personal message by those who are suicide survivors and by those who have been left behind. Here are a few semicolon tattoos I found on Pinterest.
When people see the I Press On logo, I want them to know that I Press On is a member of the broader community that supports suicide awareness and prevention. And, that our services are here to support this effort. It’s not lost on me the link between suicide and depression. It’s only fitting that I Press On formally acknowledges our commitment to broaden our conversation about depression to include both suicide awareness and prevention. If recent events have taught us anything, it’s taught us that suicide does not discriminate. It impacts all races, religions, and social-economic backgrounds. Suicide has a broad reach but it doesn’t have to have a permanent grasp. Remember, your story isn’t over. And as always, let’s press on together!