Orange Shirt Society

Orange Shirt Society Orange Shirt Day is a legacy of the St. This project was the vision of Esketemc (Alkali Lake) Chief Fred Robbins, who is a former student himself.

The official organization of Orange Shirt Day: Creating awareness about the intergenerational impacts of Indian Residential Schools, the concept of and supporting Residential School Reconciliation Joseph Mission (SJM) Residential School (1891-1981) Commemoration Project and Reunion events that took place in Williams Lake, BC, Canada, in May 2013. It brought together former stude

nts and their families from the Secwepemc, Tsilhqot’in, Southern Dakelh and St’at’imc Nations along with the Cariboo Regional District, the Mayors and municipalities, School Districts and civic organizations in the Cariboo Region. The events were designed to commemorate the residential school experience, to witness and honour the healing journey of the survivors and their families, and to commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation. Chief Justice Murray Sinclair challenged all of the participants to keep the reconciliation process alive. Orange Shirt Day is a legacy of this project. As spokesperson for the Reunion group leading up to the events, former student Phyllis (Jack) Webstad told her story of her first day at residential school when her shiny new orange shirt, bought by her grandmother, was taken from her as a six-year old girl, and we came to the realization that all survivors had similar stories. The annual Orange Shirt Day on September 30th opens the door to global conversation on all aspects of Residential Schools. It is an opportunity to create meaningful discussion about the effects of Residential Schools and the legacy they have left behind: a discussion all Canadians can tune into and create bridges with each other for reconciliation. Orange Shirt Day is a day for survivors to be reaffirmed that they matter, and so do those that have been affected. Every Child Matters, even if they are an adult, from now on! The date was chosen because it is the time of year in which children were taken from their homes to residential schools, and because it is an opportunity to set the stage for anti-racism and anti-bullying policies for the coming school year. It is an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come. It all started right here in the Cariboo, and as a result, Cariboo Chilcotin School District No. 27 has been chosen by the First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC) to pilot curriculum changes for all Grade 5 and Grade 10 students reflecting the residential school experience, to be implemented province-wide. Resolutions have been passed in support of Orange Shirt Day by local governments, school districts, and First Nations in the Cariboo and beyond. Most recently the AFN Chiefs-in-Council passed a resolution declaring Orange Shirt Day “a first step in reconciliation”, and pledging to bring the message home as well as to the government of Canada and the churches responsible. On this day of September 30th, we call upon humanity to listen with open hearts to the stories of survivors and their families, and to remember those that didn’t make it. We encourage all to post pictures of your event or activity, share your story, or simply enjoy others sharing theirs. Two videos on the St. Joseph Mission activities held in Williams Lake. Phyllis’s Story: http://youtu.be/ll1pUrK29MM
The Commemoration Project: http://youtu.be/JkssXtqScM0

Thank you Peter Skeene Ogden Highschool Graduation Ceremony June 19 2026 It has truly been a busy few weeks with all the...
06/22/2026

Thank you Peter Skeene Ogden Highschool Graduation Ceremony June 19 2026

It has truly been a busy few weeks with all the graduation ceremonies, and I wish I could attend each and every one to personally thank you for your dedication throughout your learning journey—from kindergarten to Grade 12. Through Orange Shirt Day and the teachings about Indian Residential Schools in your curriculum, you have gained knowledge that will shape your path forward.

You are the next leaders, and you will be the voices for future generations. For that, I raise my hands up to each and every one of you in respect and gratitude.

Thank you to Peter Skene Ogden Secondary School for inviting me to be part of your ceremony. Seeing the orange sashes filled me with pride and emotion—it was a powerful reminder that truth, remembrance, and reconciliation are being carried forward by all of you.

All my relations,
Phyllis Webstad and
the Orange Shirt Society

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day June 21.2026 Summer Solstice-longest day of the year! Today, we celebrate the stre...
06/22/2026

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day June 21.2026 Summer Solstice-longest day of the year!

Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of Indigenous Peoples across these lands. We honour the cultures, languages, traditions, and teachings that have been carried forward since time immemorial—and continue to guide us today.

We have come a long way. There was a time when history forbid us from honouring who we are, from celebrating our identities and cultures openly. Today, we stand proud—proud to be Indigenous, proud of our ancestors, and proud of the generations rising up in strength and truth.

Phyllis Webstad and the Orange Shirt Society extend our deepest gratitude to Survivors, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, youth, and allies who continue to walk this path with us. Together, we have created space to celebrate, to heal, and to honour who we are as Indigenous Peoples.

Today, we invite everyone to stand with us—wear your orange, reflect, celebrate, and uplift Indigenous voices. Together with all our allies, let us continue to move forward in unity, respect, and love.

Every Child Matters. Always has. Always will.

🧡 With love and respect,Phyllis Webstad & the Orange Shirt Society

06/19/2026

National indigenous people they parade in Williams Lake BC 

06/13/2026

Impact of the 2026 Lake City Graduation Ceremony – June 12, Williams Lake

The 2026 Lake City Graduation Ceremony held on June 12 in Williams Lake was a deeply emotional and powerful experience for me. It was a moment that truly reflected how far we have come in our journey of reconciliation, recognizing both the pain we have endured and the strength we continue to carry forward.

When I first shared my truth about having my orange shirt taken away on my first day, I could never have imagined that one day we would gather in spaces like this—where Orange Shirt Day is not only remembered, but honoured, reflected upon, and taught with purpose. These graduates have grown up learning about Orange Shirt Day and Indian Residential Schools and the importance of truth and reconciliation since kindergarten. They are graduating not only with knowledge, but with empathy, understanding, and compassion.

Walking into the auditorium filled me with an immense sense of emotions. Seeing orange sashes placed on every chair and watching graduates wearing their orange shirt pins was a powerful symbol—one that showed we are making history. These are meaningful steps forward on the path of reconciliation.

This moment affirmed that the next generation is ready. They are prepared to continue the conversation, to challenge injustices, and to create lasting change.
To all the graduates across Canada: thank you for your willingness to listen, to learn, and to lead. You are our changemakers. One day, you will be our future leaders, carrying this work forward with courage and heart.

I only wish I could be there at every graduation ceremony to honour each and every one of you

All my relations
Phyllis Webstad

06/13/2026

Impact of the 2026 Lake City Graduation Ceremony – June 12, Williams Lake

The 2026 Lake City Graduation Ceremony held on June 12 in Williams Lake was a deeply emotional and powerful experience for me. It was a moment that truly reflected how far we have come in our journey of reconciliation, recognizing both the pain we have endured and the strength we continue to carry forward.

When I first shared my truth about having my orange shirt taken away on my first day, I could never have imagined that one day we would gather in spaces like this—where Orange Shirt Day is not only remembered, but honoured, reflected upon, and taught with purpose. These graduates have grown up learning about Orange Shirt Day and Indian Residential Schools and the importance of truth and reconciliation since kindergarten. They are graduating not only with knowledge, but with empathy, understanding, and compassion.

Walking into the auditorium filled me with an immense sense of emotions. Seeing orange sashes placed on every chair and watching graduates wearing their orange shirt pins was a powerful symbol—one that showed we are making history. These are meaningful steps forward on the path of reconciliation.

This moment affirmed that the next generation is ready. They are prepared to continue the conversation, to challenge injustices, and to create lasting change.
To all the graduates across Canada: thank you for your willingness to listen, to learn, and to lead. You are our changemakers. One day, you will be our future leaders, carrying this work forward with courage and heart.

I only wish I could be there at every graduation ceremony to honour each and every one of you

All my relations
Phyllis Webstad

2026 Lake City Secondary High school Graduation Ceremony – June 12, Williams LakeThe 2026 Lake City Graduation Ceremony ...
06/13/2026

2026 Lake City Secondary High school Graduation Ceremony – June 12, Williams Lake

The 2026 Lake City Graduation Ceremony held on June 12 in Williams Lake was a deeply emotional and powerful experience for me. It was a moment that truly reflected how far we have come in our journey of reconciliation, recognizing both the pain we have endured and the strength we continue to carry forward.

When I first shared my truth about having my orange shirt taken away on my first day, I could never have imagined that one day we would gather in spaces like this—where Orange Shirt Day is not only remembered, but honoured, reflected upon, and taught with purpose. These graduates have grown up learning about Orange Shirt Day and Indian Residential Schools and the importance of truth and reconciliation since kindergarten. They are graduating not only with knowledge, but with empathy, understanding, and compassion.

Walking into the auditorium filled me with an immense sense of emotions. Seeing orange sashes placed on every chair and watching graduates wearing their orange shirt pins was a powerful symbol—one that showed we are making history. These are meaningful steps forward on the path of reconciliation.

This moment affirmed that the next generation is ready. They are prepared to continue the conversation, to challenge injustices, and to create lasting change.
To all the graduates across Canada: thank you for your willingness to listen, to learn, and to lead. You are our changemakers. One day, you will be our future leaders, carrying this work forward with courage and heart.

I only wish I could be there at every graduation ceremony to honour each and every one of you

All my relations 🧡🙌🏼
Phyllis Webstad

Celebrating One of Our Own – Simon Baker Phyllis Webstad and The Orange Shirt Society & Orange jersey Project would like...
05/07/2026

Celebrating One of Our Own – Simon Baker

Phyllis Webstad and The Orange Shirt Society & Orange jersey Project would like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate someone very special to our family — our ambassador, Simon Baker.

While many know Simon for his work as a talented actor in film and television, those of us who are lucky enough to work alongside him know that his impact goes far beyond the screen and it shows in his series new energy documentary with Fortisbc- Simon leads with heart, humility, and a deep commitment to community and this just feels right for being honoured for the community service award.

As President of the Squamish Nation Youth Powwow, Simon continues to uplift youth, strengthen culture, and create spaces where traditions are celebrated and carried forward. His dedication to giving back and supporting the next generation is inspiring and deeply meaningful.

Simon, we are incredibly proud of you and grateful for everything you bring — your voice, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to community.

Thank you for being such a powerful role model and for walking this path with us.

Check out the series below on this link.

https://youtu.be/_HvE_c2o-zw?si=YRVd_Leeb1kLsr0W

Today, on MMIWG / Red Dress Day, Phyllis Webstad the Orange Shirt Society & Orange Jersey Project Team stands in remembr...
05/05/2026

Today, on MMIWG / Red Dress Day, Phyllis Webstad the Orange Shirt Society & Orange Jersey Project Team stands in remembrance, honour, and solidarity.

We honour the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people—those who were taken from their families, their Nations, and their futures far too soon. We acknowledge the deep and ongoing grief carried by families, survivors, and communities.

As we wear red today, we affirm that Indigenous lives matter. We commit to listening to families and survivors, to amplifying their voices, and to advancing truth, accountability, and meaningful change.

We will continue this work not just today, but every day—until Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people are safe, honoured, and free to live fully. “Every Child Matters”

There is still space in this insightful book study. AND we have a few free spots available! Please email bookstudy@ora...
04/30/2026

There is still space in this insightful book study. AND we have a few free spots available! Please email [email protected] for more info.

Routes to Reconciliation:an Orange Shirt Society Book Study SeriesOrange Shirt Society was founded on the principle of R...
04/20/2026

Routes to Reconciliation:
an Orange Shirt Society Book Study Series

Orange Shirt Society was founded on the principle of Reconciliation through education. Phyllis Webstad’s brave telling of her orange shirt story gave new energy and purpose to education about Truth and Reconciliation in school settings across the country. We all know that education is a lifelong venture, open to all.

Join us to continue the conversation and deepen your learning through our transformative new book study series. Every season we will explore the pages of a different book, each one written with wisdom and clarity by a respected author. These books have an impact, shedding new light on what it means to walk the path of Reconciliation.

These are not easy learnings, but we find, time and again, that when we join with others, from all cultures, with open hearts and minds, that there is joy in the process, satisfaction in the learning, and power in the doors to action that are opened. We will be held and supported by cultural teachings and ceremony.

Spring 2026 Join us for our small group pilot (12 participants only)!
Book: Decolonization and Me: Conversations about Healing a Nation and Ourselves, by Phyllis Webstad and Kristy McLeod
Dates: Tuesdays, May 12 – June 9, 2026 (5 sessions via Zoom)
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Registration: Email [email protected] by May 1, 2026 to secure your spot.
Fee: $150; sliding scale available for those in financial need. *Participants are responsible for obtaining their own books.

Address

PO Box 4240
Williams Lake, BC
V2G2V3

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Orange Shirt Society posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category