How and when did Orange Shirt Day began?

In 1973, six-year-old Phyllis Webstad proudly wore a new orange shirt—chosen by her and purchased by her grandmother—for her first day at residential school. When she arrived, the shirt was taken from her and never returned.

Years later, Phyllis shared her story, inspiring the first Orange Shirt Day in 2013. Today, we wear orange every September 30 to honour residential school Survivors, remember the children who never returned home and affirm that Every Child Matters. 🧡