On September 17, 2020, we were privileged to host a virtual presentation by Phyllis Webstad who shared her experience attending a residential school. She movingly told how sharing her story since 2013 has led to Orange Shirt Day, recognized every September 30.
Orange Shirt Day is a day to honour and remember the experiences of survivors and those who did not make it. Phyllis’s commitment and courage has led to awareness of the intergenerational impact of residential schools at local, provincial, national, and international levels.
Many in attendance wore an orange shirt for the presentation to show support for survivors and reconciliation.
Phyllis Webstad is the Executive Director of the Orange Shirt Society, and tours the country telling her story and raising awareness about the impacts of the residential school system. She has published several books including “The Orange Shirt Story” and “Phyllis’s Orange Shirt” for younger children.
For more details on Orange Shirt Day, visit their website.
Order your own orange shirt here.
Important: Take care of yourself as this can be an emotionally triggering topic particularly for survivors and intergenerational survivors. Reach out to supports, connect with a resource:
- KUU-US Crisis line (24 hr, toll free): 1-800-588-8717
- Crisis Centre BC (24 hr): 1-800-784-2433
- Crisis Services Canada (24 hr): 1-833-456-4566
- Hope for Wellness Help Line (24 hr): 1-855-242-3310
- UBC Counselling Services 604-822-3811
