Summer is coming to an end, and with the beginning of fall that means Orange Shirt Day is coming up. On September 30, 2024 many people will gather wearing their orange shirts; a commitment we make to honour children everywhere. It is a commitment made because every child matters. September 30th was declared the national day for Truth and Reconciliation and is a federal statutory holiday. The holiday was implemented because from 2008-2015 residential school survivors shared their stories and experiences with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It is to honour the thousands of children who never made it home.
Orange Shirt Day is also on September 30th. Orange shirts are used as the symbol for Truth and Reconciliation Day because Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, an artist and activist from the Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation, shared her story of her first day of residential school at just six years old. Her grandmother bought her a bright orange shirt to wear, and it was immediately stripped from her. Therefore, the orange shirt symbolizes what has been taken from Indigenous children. We wear our orange shirts on this day to remember that every child matters.
September 30th is a day to participate and learn about the history of residential schools. It is a day to hear stories about the effects residential schools have had on people. It is a day for survivors of the residential schools to raise awareness and come together to provide valuable education.
If you are curious about how you can participate in a meaningful way on this day, there are many ways to do so. Have a conversation with a survivor, or someone who has known survivors. Try and attend an event in your local area (you can visit www.orangeshirtday.org to see what is happening near you). You can also donate to the Orange Shirt Society, who will use that donation to increase visibility and plan more events.
Education in communities needs to happen. It is important to recognize the past and the history of colonization and the impact residential schools had on children and families still to this day. Only by acknowledging the past can we change the future.
For residential school survivors, this time of year can be triggering, as many of the students who attended the schools were taken away from their parents at the beginning of the school year. Survivors of the residential school system experienced different forms of trauma.
How can we support someone who is triggered?
- Actively Listen: let the survivor talk, be aware if the survivor needs to take a break. It is important to validate their feelings.
- Respect: It is an honor to hear a survivors’ story, so it is always important to be attentive and compassionate.
- Advocate: offer help refer to Walmsley EFAP if appropriate or share information and resources.
- Acknowledge: Let them know their story is important and that they are courageous to share it.
- Understand: For someone who has heightened emotions, feeling understood can make a huge difference. Ask what they need in that moment and remind them that you are there and support them.
If you or someone you know is struggling it is important to reach out for help, please reach out to Walmsley EFAP, where we can connect you with a counsellor.
Harriet Hird MACP RCC BSW
Walmsley EFAP