The Alberta Teachers’ Association

Orange Shirt Day will proceed as a virtual event this year.

Held every year on Sept. 30, the event encourages the wearing of an orange shirt and normally sends busloads of teachers and students to gatherings across the country, but this year teachers can register and select from a variety of events that are available to livestream for their students. Teachers can also download free educational resources.

Designed for students in grades 5 through 12, the virtual event will provide an opportunity to learn first- hand from residential school survivors, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, artists and leaders from nations and cultures across the country.

Originating in 2013, Orange Shirt Day was created by residential school survivor Phyllis Jack Webstad, whose new orange shirt — bought by her grandmother — was taken away from her on her first day at residential school when she was six years old.

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is hosting the virtual event. ❚