Instead of being held at Armidale Secondary College, it was held online due to the pandemic. But the change meant one of the state's highest ranking police officers could drop in.

Acting sergeant Ben Tatton, Armidale Police's LGBTQI liaison officer, organised the station's first ever event for Wear It Purple Day and was surprised when 70 students logged on.

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"Our original plan was to do it in person and have a carnival-type atmosphere at the school, with speakers there in person. COVID unfortunately stopped that," Acting Sgt Tatton said.

"But for 70 to turn out shows the support there is for rainbow youth in our society."

Wear It Purple is national initiative aimed at preventing bullying and youth suicide.

Two LGBTQI guest speakers were on the video conference and spoke about their experience growing up in a rural community.

NSW Police assistant commissioner Gelina Talbot was also on the call.

"For her to be there shows how much of an issue it is for NSW Police," Acting Sgt Tatton said.

The message of Wear it Purple Day is that teenagers have the right to be proud of who they are, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

"They're often forgotten, so for us as the police to say 'we are there and we support you' is important."

The national event was launched in 2010 by two students and has now grown into an international celebration.

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