Honouring Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day grew out of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s story of having her new orange shirt taken away on her first day of residential school. September 30 is also National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a national initiative to reflect on the harmful legacy of residential schools and commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation.

Canada’s residential school system was part of a purposeful attempt by the government to erase all aspects of First Nations, Inuit and Métis culture. From 1883 to 1997, over 150,000 children were taken from their families, often by force. Abuse within residential schools was widespread, and thousands of children never returned home.

The final report from the Truth & Reconciliation Commission specifically highlights the important role libraries have in educating and raising awareness about residential schools. We at BPL are committed to providing resources and programming to support learning about the legacy of residential schools—and honouring the healing journey of survivors and their families.

Burlington Public Library is located on the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

Events & Activities at BPL

We invite you to join us at these upcoming events and to wear an orange shirt on Tuesday, September 30, to affirm that "Every Child Matters." We encourage you to support the Orange Shirt Day Society if you still need a shirt or wish to make a donation.

Orange Shirt Day Buttons

Monday, September 22 to Tuesday, September 30 | Alton Branch
Tuesday, September 23 to Tuesday, September 30 | Central Branch

Visit our MakerStation at Alton or MakerSpace at Central during open hours and we’ll help you make a button to take home and wear on Orange Shirt Day. Limit of one button/person.

Indian Horse Movie Screening

Tuesday, September 30 | 2-4pm | Central Branch

Join us at Afternoon at the Movies to mark the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, with the screening of Indian Horse, a film adaptation of the bestselling novel by Richard Wagamese. The story follows the life of a Canadian First Nations boy, Saul Indian Horse, as he survives residential school and the racism of the 1970s. A talented hockey player, Saul must find his own path as he battles stereotypes and alcoholism. This 2018 film stars Sladen Peltier, Forrest Goodluck, Ajuawak Kapashesit, Michiel Huisman, Martin Donovan, Michael Murphy, Melanie McLaren, Edna Manitowabi.

Understanding Orange Shirt Day

Tuesday, September 30 | 7-8:30pm | Central Branch

There are still seats remaining for this provocative presentation by Indigenous educator Kate Dickson. She discusses Orange Shirt Day and its direct connection to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—and what we can do to change the narrative. Each year, September 30 holds historical significance, acknowledging over 500 years of colonial oppression and discrimination against Indigenous people in Canada. Reserve your spot now

Community Events

Plan to attend local special events to learn more about Indigenous culture and heritage, and the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

Full Moon Ceremony | Sunday, September 7, 7 to 8:30pm

Location: Oakville Museum
Bring a lawn chair, a ground blanket, a friend!

We Are One: World Peace Day Gathering | Saturday, September 20, 10am to 3pm

Location: The Meeting House, Oakville
A one-day gathering in the spirit of unity, hosted by Grandmother's Voice.
Features Elders' teachings, cultural teachings, a sacred fire, Indigenous vendors, and traditional Indigenous food for purchase.
Open to everyone, Admission $25, donations in support of our Elders

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Tuesday, September 30

Location: Spencer Smith Park, Burlington

Community Walk to Remember the Children | Tuesday, September 30

Location: Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Burloak Entrance
Hosted in collaboration with ROCK-Reach Out Centre for Kids and Bronte Creek Provincial Park
No entrance fee for this event

MMIWG2S+ Ceremony | Friday, October 3, 11am to 1pm

Location: Oakville Museum
Unveiling of the Art Installation and Living Monument Garden Campaign.
The garden grounds of the Oakville Museum are being named a "Living Monument" in honour of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, 2 Spirit and Gender Diverse people.
Features the original painting by Ojibwa Artist Marvin Terry in collaboration with Oakville Museum and Grandmother's Voice.
Meet the artist and walk the beautiful grounds.