As we approach the 30th of September,  schools, workplaces, and community centres are taking the opportunity to wear orange as a way to reflect that #everychildmatters. 

This movement began in 2013, based on the experience of then-six-year-old Phyllis Webstad who entered the St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School, outside of Williams Lake, B.C. 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. 

World Partners is happy to participate with each of you in marking this day, and taking the time to learn, listen, and prayerfully consider how each of us can continue to build friendship and stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities.