A day to learn, commemorate and celebrate Indigenous culture and history
Why Orange Shirts?
Orange Shirt Day grew out of Phyllis Webstad’s story of having her shiny new orange shirt taken away on her first day of school at the St. Joseph Mission residential school, and it has become an opportunity to keep the discussion on all aspects of residential schools happening annually. Hear Phyllis’ story HERE:
Nationally, Orange Shirt Day takes place on September 30th. This is the time of year in which children were taken from their homes to residential schools, and provides an opportunity to set the stage for belonging, learning, and active reconciliation for the coming school year. It is also an opportunity for First Nations, Metis, Inuit, local governments, schools and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come.
Orange Shirt Day at Gledhill
Activities and lessons are planned in the school that will foster students’ connection to the Orange Shirt Day motto of “Every Child Matters” and increase understanding of the history and impact of residential schools in age appropriate ways.
Staff and students are encouraged to wear an orange shirt to school on Friday, September 28th (as September 30th is on a Sunday this year) to commemorate the day. Any orange shirt will do!
Buying Orange Shirts for you and your family
You do not need to buy a special shirt. Any orange shirt will do! If you would like to purchase one locally, Olds Cool General store is currently taking orders. See details below, or email them at oldscoolgeneralstore@gmail.com. (Shirts are $25 each, proceeds to Anishnawbe Health Toronto. Order deadline 2pm on Sunday Sept 23rd.)
Stay Tuned
Watch the Blog next week for more Orange Shirt Day initiatives and resources.
Learn more about Orange Shirt Day
The Gledhill Guardian 
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