Orange Shirt Day

How can we join others in recognition, lament, and a commitment to reconciliation?

This year as we mark Orange Shirt Day (National Day of Truth and Reconciliation), Sally Bragg has an encouragement for us.

Sally is one of our Supervised Global Workers. She and her husband Stan serve in Saugeen First Nation, Ontario.

We pray that as you read this excerpt from the Bragg’s latest newsletter, you’ll be strongly inspired to show God’s love in action on, and beyond Orange Shirt Day.

“Give thanks to the LORD, for HE is good; His love endures forever.” Psalm 28:7

“Sept. 30th is the federally recognized National Day of Truth & Reconciliation. A day to reflect & honor Residential School survivors, their families and the impact on First Nation communities.

This day is also known as Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day inspired by the story of Residential School survivor Phyllis Webstad. Phyllis was 6 years old when she wore her new orange shirt for her first day of school. Her shirt was taken from her by school staff & never seen again. Many across Canada wear an orange shirt on this day to honor Phyllis & other children who survived the Residential Schools & in memory of those who did not.

I would encourage you to read stories of Residential School survivors, or watch a documentary. There are many available, educate yourself on this dark time in Canadian history.

Participate in an event on the 30th, wear an orange shirt.

Explore the unique intersections between treaty, constitutional, Indigenous and human rights in Canada & Ontario.

Take action to address historical injustices & present-day wrongs.

Advocate for clean drinking water on Reserves across this country, many still are not able to drink their tap water.

Pray for healing and a supernatural move of God to bring transformation to the generational trauma that cripples many First Nation communities.

Let God’s love be shown in action, not just one day a year but every day!

Ask yourself, how can I demonstrate reconciliation in a tangible way? How can I better understand the challenges facing First Nation peoples? What demonstration of God’s love could I extend to First Nation peoples? Would I commit to pray for the people and those sharing God’s love? These are just a few ideas to spur you on to see truth & reconciliation lived out in our lives.

We will join the Saugeen community & town of Southampton on the Zgaa-biig-na-gin Bridge, outside our front door on Sept. 30th to participate in a ceremony of remembrance…

Every moment we are given is a gift to be used for God’s glory and the service of others. When we look at the uncertainty of tomorrow, we aren’t filled with fear. Instead, we are filled with an urgent passion to share love, extend grace, and make a tangible difference right where the Lord has us.”

— Sally Bragg

Sign up to receive Sally & Stan’s newsletter here.

The EMCC is grateful to participate with each of you in marking this month, and taking the time to learn, listen, and prayerfully consider how each of us can continue to build friendship with Indigenous communities.

We esteem the leadership of those in and connected with the EMCC who share out of their own experience—either as an Indigenous person or as someone who has actively pursued reconciliation.

Now, let's consider together our own posture as we patiently engage, listen, and take meaningful action.