Orange Shirt Day, also known as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, is observed annually on September 30th in Canada to acknowledge and remember the thousands of First Nations, Inuit and Métis children who were forcibly removed from their families and placed in residential schools. This day is not only about commemorating the past but also about fostering reconciliation and building a more inclusive future. The origins of Orange Shirt Day, the devastating effects of colonization, and the ways in which people can contribute to healing and reconciliation are all crucial to understanding the importance of this observance.

The Origins of Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day was initiated by Phyllis Webstad, a Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation. In 1973, at the age of six, Phyllis was sent to the St. Joseph Mission Residential School in British Columbia. On her first day, she was excited to wear a beautiful orange shirt gifted by her grandmother, but it was taken away, and she never saw it again. This experience symbolized the stripping away of her identity and culture, a common experience for many Indigenous children in residential schools. 

In 2013, Phyllis shared her story at a commemoration event in Williams Lake, BC, which led to the establishment of Orange Shirt Day. The day serves as a reminder that “Every Child Matters,” emphasizing the need for all Canadians to remember and reflect on the legacy of residential schools and the ongoing impact of colonization.

The Effects of Colonization

The history of colonization in Canada has had profound and lasting effects on Indigenous communities. Residential schools, which operated from the late 19th century until the 1990s, were a central tool of this colonization. These schools aimed to assimilate Indigenous children by eradicating their languages, cultures, and identities. 

The trauma inflicted by these schools is immense. Children often faced physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, and well over 4,000 children are officially recorded as having died while at a residential school. The loss of cultural connection and the disruption of family structures led to intergenerational trauma, manifesting in various social and health issues within Indigenous communities. The effects of colonization are still evident today, with disparities in health, education, and economic opportunities persisting.

How People Can Help

Recognizing the past and understanding its impact is the first step towards reconciliation. Here are ways individuals can contribute to healing and supporting Indigenous communities:

Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the history of residential schools and the experiences of survivors. Share this knowledge with friends, family, and community members to foster a broader understanding and empathy.

Support Indigenous Voices: Amplify Indigenous voices by reading books, watching films, and following Indigenous creators and activists. Supporting Indigenous-led initiatives and businesses can also make a significant difference.

Participate in Orange Shirt Day: Wear an orange shirt on September 30th to show solidarity and raise awareness. Participate in local events, whether they are educational workshops, memorials, or cultural celebrations.

Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives that aim to address the systemic issues affecting Indigenous communities. This includes advocating for better access to healthcare, education, and housing, as well as supporting efforts to preserve and revitalize Indigenous languages and cultures.

Donate to Relevant Causes: Contribute to organizations that work towards the welfare of Indigenous peoples, such as the Orange Shirt Society, which aims to create awareness of the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts of residential schools.

Orange Shirt Day is a powerful reminder of the resilience of Indigenous communities and the ongoing journey towards reconciliation. By understanding its origins, acknowledging the effects of colonization, and actively participating in the healing process, we can all contribute to a more just and inclusive society. Every child matters, and through collective efforts, we can honour the past and build a better future for everyone.