Orange Shirt Day Book and Media Recommendations

Orange Shirt Day is a significant day of remembrance and education about the history of Indigenous child genocide, forced assimilation and the ongoing impacts of the First Nations (Canada) and Native American (US) residential school system. Orange Shirt Day was inspired by Phyllis Webstad, a Northern Secwépemc woman who, as a child, had her new orange shirt taken from her on her first day at a residential school. 

Wearing an orange shirt signifies:

• Remembering the survivors and those who never returned home
• Recognizing the intergenerational trauma caused by residential schools
• Recommitting to truth, reconciliation, and justice for Indigenous communities

"The Orange Shirt Story" by Phyllis Webstad – A picture book version of her experience. 

"Stolen Words" by Melanie Florence – A story about a granddaughter helping her grandfather reclaim his Cree language.

"The Secret Path" – Animated film by Gord Downie telling the story of Chanie Wenjack’s escape from a residential school.

"Indian Horse" by Richard Wagamese – A novel about a boy’s survival in residential schools and hockey.

"7 Generations: A Plains Cree Saga" by David A. Robertson – A graphic novel exploring intergenerational trauma.

"We Were Children" – A documentary featuring survivor testimonies.

"They Called Me Number One" by Bev Sellars – A memoir of a Secwepemec woman’s experience in a residential school.

"Unreconciled" by Jesse Wente – A book exploring Canada’s relationship with Indigenous peoples.

"Residential Schools: Truth and Reconciliation in Canada" – A documentary of the TRC’s findings.