York Region District School Board hosted an Orange Shirt Day event for self-identified First Nations, Inuit and Métis students, families and staff for a night of reflection, learning and community connection.
Participants created beaded Orange Shirt Day pins and engaged in learning with an Indigenous knowledge holder. The event also offered an opportunity to connect and learn more about the school board services available to self-identified Indigenous students and families, such as:
- culturally specific learning opportunities and activities
- academic and well-being supports
- access to Indigenous Student Advisors
- transition supports for post-secondary education
“It was important for us to create a space for First Nation, Inuit and Métis families to come together to honour Orange Shirt Day and all those affected by the legacy of residential schools,” said Carolyn Marchand, First Nations, Inuit and Métis Education Team Coordinator. “This is part of our ongoing commitment to working with self-identified students, families and staff to connect with community, culture and learning.”
Orange Shirt Day honours the story of residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, a member of the Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation, survivor of the residential school system, and the founder of Orange Shirt Day.
The event was hosted by the YRDSB First Nations, Inuit and Métis Education Team. Learn more about how the Board works to support Indigenous students and fulfill its commitments to Truth and Reconciliation.