Art work by Morgan Asoyuf, Tsimshian Nation

“Art is an intimate connection to our history, identity and our community. I am honoured to continue our traditions and to share them.”

September 30th marks ORANGE SHIRT DAY: Every Child Matters​, Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation a day of remembrance and respect to honour the students and survivors of Canada’s Residential School system.

On this day, Canadians are encouraged to wear an orange shirt to show their support for survivors and pay respects to those who did not make it and their families.

Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) is Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek/Dog Creek). She comes from mixed Secwepemc and European ancestry. Born in Dog Creek, Phyllis is married, has one son, a step-son, five grandchildren, and now lives in Williams Lake, BC. Phyllis earned diplomas in both Business Administration and Accounting and is the Executive Director of the Orange Shirt Society. The author of multiple books, she tours the country telling her story and raising awareness about the impacts of the Residential School System. Her simple orange shirt has become a conversation starter for all aspects of Residential School across Canada and beyond.

Art work by Morgan Asoyuf, Tsimshian Nation

“Art is an intimate connection to our history, identity and our community. I am honoured to continue our traditions and to share them.”

September 30th marks ORANGE SHIRT DAY: Every Child Matters​, Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day of remembrance and respect to honour the students and survivors of Canada’s Residential School system.

On this day, Canadians are encouraged to wear an orange shirt to show their support for survivors and pay respects to those who did not make it.