Orange Shirt Day

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

The Orange Shirt movement began in 2013, based on the experience of Phyllis Webstad who entered the St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School, outside of Williams Lake, B.C in 1973 when she was 6 years old.

Phyllis was wearing a brand new orange shirt for her first day of school which the Mission quickly removed and replaced with a school uniform. While she only attended for one year, Phyllis has spoken of the school’s lasting impact. She has said, “ I finally get it, that feeling of worthlessness and insignificance ingrained in me from my first day at the mission… Even now, when I know the truth, I still sometimes feel that I don’t matter.”

Phyllis story, and many others, has propelled a national movement to recognize the experience of survivors of Residential Schools, honour them, and show a collective commitment to healing and reconciliation.

As we approach Orange Shirt Day (National Day of Truth and Reconciliation) on the 30th of September, schools, workplaces, and community centres are taking the opportunity to wear orange as a way to reflect that #everychildmatters.

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 have been grateful for 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.