As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, I remain deeply committed to honoring the experiences and resilience of Indigenous communities. This day, often recognized by the wearing of orange shirts, serves as a powerful reminder of the injustices faced by Indigenous children who were taken from their families and placed in residential schools. It is a day of reflection, learning, and, most importantly, an opportunity to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities across Canada.

The Symbolism of the Orange Shirt

The tradition of wearing orange on September 30 originates from Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad. At the age of six, Phyllis was excited to wear a new orange shirt to her first day of residential school. However, upon arrival, the shirt was taken from her, symbolizing the loss of identity and culture experienced by many Indigenous children in residential schools. Since then, the orange shirt has become a symbol of the broader effort to ensure that “Every Child Matters” and that the experiences of those who suffered in these schools are not forgotten.

The 2024 Every Child Matters Design

This year’s Every Child Matters orange shirt, available through OrangeShirtDay.org, features a new design that honors the stories of survivors and their families. Created with input from Indigenous artists and communities, the 2024 design embodies themes of healing, resilience, and the strength of Indigenous cultures. The artwork reflects the ongoing journey of reconciliation and the importance of preserving and sharing Indigenous heritage.

If you would like to purchase a shirt, you can do so directly from the Orange Shirt Society or the retailers they list on their website, at OrangeShirtDay.org. Proceeds from the sale of these shirts support Indigenous communities, by helping to fund programs and initiatives that foster healing and education.

Why We Wear Orange

Wearing an orange shirt on September 30 is more than just a symbol; it is a call to action. It invites reflection on the history and ongoing impact of residential schools in Canada. By wearing orange, we acknowledge the pain and trauma that these schools inflicted on Indigenous communities and express our commitment to learning from the past and working towards a future that respects and uplifts Indigenous voices.

Join Us in Commemorating Truth and Reconciliation Day

I invite all community members to join Brampton Library in commemorating Truth and Reconcilation Day by participating in our events and wearing their orange shirts on September 30. Please note that all branches will be closed on this day of observance in order to honor the memory of those impacted and stand in solidarity with Indigenious communities.