We wear orange on Orange Shirt Day to honor and remember the Indigenous children who were taken from their families and sent to residential schools in Canada. The day was inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, who, as a young girl, was excited to wear a brand new orange shirt her grandmother gave her on her first day of residential school. But when she arrived, the shirt was taken away from her, and she never got it back. 

Her orange shirt became a symbol of how children lost not only their belongings, but also their voices, culture, and connections to family. By wearing orange, we show that every child matters, and we commit to learning, listening, and working toward reconciliation.  

Sunnyside School students are invited to wear an orange or a favorite shirt to celebrate that every child matters. They are celebrating the importance of children being loved, safe, cared for, and proud of who they are. Wearing orange also shows respect for Indigenous children and families, and it celebrates the idea that kids should always get to learn and grow in a place where they belong. 

In Honour of Truth and Reconciliation, we will have an assembly at 3:00pm. Families are welcome to join.