September 30th: National Day of Reconciliation: Orange Shirt Day

September 30th has been declared National Day of Reconciliation or Orange Shirt Day in recognition of the harm the residential school system did to children's sense of self-esteem and well-being, and as an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone around us matters. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, September 30th has been designated as National Day of Reconciliation and is a holiday for staff and students at Natoaganeg School. This Day of Reconciliation is an opportunity to reflect, commemorate and acknowledge the impact and history residential schools.

On Wednesday, September 29th Students and staff from Natoaganeg school will be holding a gathering to remember the children who did not come home from Indian Residential schools, to support the families who have suffered the loss of their children and to honor those who survived. Beginning at 10:30am we will wear our orange shirts as we gather for smudge, prayer and a walk throughout the community. Our gathering will conclude at the veteran’s memorial where we will join the community for a commemoration ceremony.

Excerpt from Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s story:

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.

Watch and listen to Phyllis Webstad’s story: https://www.orangeshirtday.org/phyllis-story.html

#EveryChildMatters