On September 30th, join us in honouring Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Orange Shirt Day is recognized annually to acknowledge the effects and legacy of the residential school system and is an opportunity to take action. The day grew out of a commemorative gathering and reunion for survivors of St. Joseph Mission Residential School, where survivor Phyllis Webstad (Jack) shared her experiences as a child.
To read Phyllis’ story in her own words, click below. The details of Phyllis’ story may be difficult to read.
Each year on September 30th, people from all over Canada are invited to wear orange in honour of Orange Shirt Day and to remind ourselves that “Every Child Matters”. In 2021, this day coincided with the inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which was recognized by Parliament in partial fulfillment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 80:
“We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.”
To learn more about Orange Shirt Day, Phyllis’ story, and ways to participate in this event in your home community, click here:
