Orange Shirt Day
On September 30th, we not only observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, but it also aligns with Orange Shirt Day. In solidarity with this meaningful occasion, our Council and staff are donning orange shirts to show their support.
The objective of Orange Shirt Day is to raise awareness about the enduring, multi-generational effects of Indian Residential Schools on individuals, families, and communities. Moreover, it provides a platform for ongoing conversations about the devastating impacts of these schools, to listen to stories of survivors, a moment to commemorate those who never returned, an opportunity for educational growth, and a catalyst for unifying individuals, institutions, and governments in the pursuit of reconciliation.
How Did Orange Shirt Day Begin?
On September 30, 2013, Phyllis Webstad shared her story at the St. Joseph Mission (SJM) residential school commemoration event in Williams Lake, BC. When Phyllis was 6 years old, she was excited to wear her new orange shirt to her first day of residential school. The orange shirt was given to her by her grandmother. When Phyllis arrived at school, her new orange shirt was taken from her and she never saw it again.
To learn more about Phyllis Webstad’s story, please visit: Phyllis' Story.
https://orangeshirtday.org/orange-shirt-day/
You can also watch a video here of Phyllis Webstad explaining the story of her experience at Residential School and the start of Orange Shirt Day in Canada.