Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day is observed annually on September 30 to honour the Survivors of Canada’s residential school system, the children who never returned home, and their families and communities. The day invites all people in Canada to engage in remembrance, learning, and reconciliation, symbolized by the message: Every Child Matters.

Origins and Meaning

Orange Shirt Day was inspired by the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, whose new orange shirt—given to her by her grandmother—was taken away on her first day at a residential school in the 1970s. The orange shirt has since become a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

Why September 30?

The date coincides with the time of year when many Indigenous children were historically taken from their homes to residential schools. It is now a dedicated moment for Canadians to reflect on that legacy and commit to reconciliation in action.

Connection to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Since 2021, September 30 has also been recognized federally as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Many institutions observe both together by:

Wearing orange and hosting commemorative events
Offering educational programming about the residential school system
Creating spaces for Survivors, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers to share truths

How People Participate

Wear orange on September 30 and share the message “Every Child Matters”
Attend community events, teachings, and commemorations
Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s findings and the 94 Calls to Action
Support Indigenous-led organizations, arts, and learning initiatives
Include land acknowledgements and local histories in schools and workplaces

Learning and Reflection

Orange Shirt Day encourages people to learn about:

The history and purpose of residential schools
Intergenerational impacts on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities
The importance of language, culture, and self-determination
Paths for reconciliation—policy change, education, and respectful relationships

Key Messages

Every Child Matters—every child deserves safety, love, education, and culture
Listening to Survivors is essential to truth and reconciliation
Reconciliation requires ongoing learning and concrete action