I read this headline the other day: a t-shirt can start a revolution.
And I have to say, I like that.
Even though every blockbuster movie you watch suggests that change can only be managed through better weapons and more explosions, I’m keen to double-down on revolution by wardrobe.
After all, culture is a living breathing thing, and it responds to us, as we respond to it – a constant back and forth, tug of war, interplay.
The year is the 10th anniversary of Orange Shirt Day, a movement that started with one woman’s deeply personal story, shared through a symbol that could be understood by anyone, no matter their age, and could provide a portal for people to deepen their learning and their healing. An orange t-shirt.
This year, four days of events will take place at the epicentre of Orange Shirt Day, at Williams Lake.
Kicking off Wednesday, September 27th with an awareness ride from St. Joseph’s Mission to the Orange Shirt Society office (2661 Indian Drive) where we will finish with snacks, refreshments, and story telling.
Thursday, September 28th we will be at the Williams Lake Stampede Grounds hosting SD27 students with awareness activities, speeches, presentations, and more.
Friday, September 29th again at the Williams Lake Stampede Grounds with many activities, truth telling, and presentations. Friday will also have culinary and artisan vendors as well as wagon rides.
Saturday, September 30th again at the Williams Lake Stampede Grounds with many activities, truth telling, and presentations. Saturday will also host the exciting Indian Relay Races as well as have culinary and artisan vendors and wagon rides.
There will be some offsite activities, such as museum archives, quilts for survivors, and witness blanket, with time and location to be determined.
As there will be many activities and multiple locations, keep an eye on our website and social media for a full schedule of events.
In Pemberton, at Signal Hill Elementary, orange t-shirts are being provided to all staff and students, and they will be designing their Orange Shirt for the Truth and Reconciliation Assembly on Thursday, September 28th.
Where might this revolution of orange shirts carry us? On to greater healing and genuine reconciliation. Where the slogan becomes reality: every child matters.
The Wellness Almanac 