Remembering Our Past, Building Our Future: Honouring Phyllis Webstad and Orange Shirt Day
As Canada approaches the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th, the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary (AFCC) reflects on the profound importance of this day and the enduring legacy of residential school survivors. This year, as we prepare to wear our orange shirts, we want to share a look back at a truly special event we had the honour of hosting this past March: a heartfelt tribute to Phyllis Webstad, the brave survivor whose personal story ignited the Orange Shirt Day movement.
The Power of a Stolen Orange Shirt
Phyllis Webstad’s story is the cornerstone of Orange Shirt Day. When she was just six years old, attending St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School, her brand new, bright orange shirt, gifted by her grandmother, was immediately taken from her. That moment, and the subsequent years of residential school, became a powerful symbol of the cultural assimilation, loss, and profound trauma inflicted upon Indigenous children. Her courage in sharing this story has transformed a personal pain into a national call for awareness, healing, and reconciliation.
AFCC’s Evening of Honour and Reflection
This past March, the AFCC was privileged to host and celebrate Phyllis Webstad in an evening dedicated to honouring her resilience and acknowledging the deep impact of her work. The event was a testament to community spirit and collective remembrance. The evening began with a solemn opening prayer and a land acknowledgment, followed by the powerful sounds of an honour song and drumming performance by Women Sings Many Songs. Attendees heard poignant welcome remarks and speeches that underscored the vital importance of Ms. Webstad’s advocacy.A deeply moving part of the evening included heartfelt presentations to Phyllis from our community’s youth, along with representatives from the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA), and special guests Dr. Tyler White and Shane Gauthier. Each presentation highlighted the far-reaching influence of her story and the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.
The evening concluded with inspiring closing remarks from Ms. Webstad herself, delivered with profound grace and unwavering strength. Following the formal program, a social gathering allowed community members to connect and share a meal, fostering a spirit of togetherness and reflection.
Watch the Full Event: For those who wish to experience this moving tribute, you can watch the full video of the event here: Honouring Phyllis Webstad: A Special Evening Hosted by AFCC
Why Orange Shirt Day Matters
Orange Shirt Day, and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, is not just a day; it’s an annual opportunity to:
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Honour Survivors: Acknowledge the strength, resilience, and stories of residential school survivors.
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Remember Those Lost: Commemorate the thousands of children who never returned home.
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Educate Ourselves: Learn about the history and ongoing impacts of the residential school system.
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Commit to Reconciliation: Understand our individual and collective roles in the journey towards a better, more just future.
Learn More & Take Action:
We encourage everyone to take time on September 30th, and every day, to reflect on this painful chapter of Canadian history and commit to action.
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Learn more about Orange Shirt Day: https://www.orangeshirtday.org/
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Read the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada:https://nctr.ca/records/reports/#trc-reports
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Support Indigenous-led organizations like AFCC: Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary
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Educate yourself on Indigenous history and cultures.
“Every Child Matters.” This Monday, and every day, let us wear our orange shirts, listen to the voices of survivors, and work together towards a future built on understanding, respect, and reconciliation.