National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Orange Shirt Day Sept 30

This year at the BNFC, our orange shirt was designed by the children attending our cultural summer camp.  We wanted to centre the use of Anishinaabemowin to bring the message of “Every Child Matters” to our community:Gichi piitendaagziwag kina binoojiiyag.  These words are written by our children as a reminder and a call to action for the community.  We are still here, we are still using our language, and we matter.The sweetgrass braid shows the strength of community.  One strand of sweetgrass is easily broken, but when braided together it holds strong. The braid wraps and holds the hands of our children, showing the love and strength of our community.The sweetgrass braid also reminds us to look to the seven generations that came before us and think of the seven generations ahead. The back design on the t-shirt shows that looking ahead to the next generation, as each child states “I Matter” in their own writing.“Orange Shirt Day” is not just about remembering Phyllis Webstad’s story, but also reflecting on the intergenerational impacts of residential schools and how they continue to affect the youth of today.  We know our truth; it is up to the community to bring about reconciliation.  Uplift and empower the voices of our children and youth. Miigwech.