Raising Awareness for Truth & Reconciliation Day

September 30, 2022

September 30, 2022, Edmonton, AB – The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, was established in Canada in 2013 as an observance. In 2021 it became recognized as a statutory holiday. September 30 is to promote awareness and education of the residential school system and its impact on the Indigenous communities for over a century.

The orange shirt is inspired by the personal story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, founder and ambassador of the Orange Shirt Society.

“I went to the Mission for one school year in 1973/1974. I had just turned 6 years old. I lived with my grandmother on the Dog Creek reserve. We never had very much money, but somehow my granny managed to buy me a new outfit to go to the Mission school. I remember going to Robinson’s store and picking out a shiny orange shirt. It had string laced up in front, and was so bright and exciting – just like I felt to be going to school!

When I got to the Mission, they stripped me, and took away my clothes, including the orange shirt! I never wore it again. I didn’t understand why they wouldn’t give it back to me, it was mine! The color orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared and how I felt like I was worth nothing. All of us little children were crying and no one cared.”

This year, the Waiward family will proudly wear artwork drawn by Rhea Powder from the Mikisew Cree First Nation. “The little hands represent the kids who have been found across Canada and the feathers reminded me of my heritage.” – Rhea Powder

Our team has demonstrated tremendous support by donating $2,170 to the Orange Shirt Society! Our month-long campaign allowed our team to share personal stories and connections to the impact of the residential school system and Indigenous history.