Orange Shirt Day
Orange Shirt Day is held at the end of September in BC as a reminder that “every child matters”. This day is in recognition of the abuse incurred at Residential Schools, inspired by Phyllis’ story, a 6-year old girl who had her clothes taken away from her on her first day of school at the St. Joseph Mission residential school (near William's Lake, BC). The resources page on the Orange Shirt Day site lists background information, sample agendas and video showing community ceremonies, and discussion guides. Check out the
Every Child Matters
Why Promote?
September was chosen specifically to celebrate Orange Shirt Day because this is the time that children were taken from their families and sent to Residential School. September still remains the traditional start to the school year and bringing in a discussion around Orange Shirt Day can set the tone for the school year in regards to understanding, acceptance, and kindness.
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"Orange Shirt Day is also an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come."
Student project for Orange Shirt Day in Saskatchewan.