On September 30th, along with citizens of all ages across Canada, we acknowledge Orange Shirt Day as a time to commemorate the survivors of the residential school era, this dark time in our shared history as well as our commitment to truth, healing and reconciliation through education. It’s an important day to share the message that Every Child Matters!

Orange Shirt Day started in 2013 when residential school survivor - Phyliss Webstad - visited an elementary school in British Columbia as a guest speaker. 

As Phyllis shared her story, it inspired students and educators to action and as a result - September 30th was designated as Orange Shirt Day. September 30th is significant because this was the day children were gathered and taken to residential school.  

In 2021, due to growing awareness, Orange Shirt Day was also recognized as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This has evolved to serve as a focal point for Truth and Reconciliation Week and source of inspiration for deeper learning with consideration for age / grade appropriate resources and strategies due to the sensitive nature of the content. 

Orange Shirt Day is an opportunity to work together to foster a sense of belonging, community, truth, healing and reconciliation through education at this time - and as part of daily learning throughout the school year.  

Consider ways you already demonstrate this important message and new ways you may wish to demonstrate that...Every Child Matters!