100 Mile Elementary
On September 30, Canadians wear orange to recognize the survivors of residential schools and to honour the children who never returned home. Orange Shirt Day began with Phyllis Webstad’s story, when her new orange shirt was taken away on her first day of residential school. This simple act became a powerful symbol of the loss of language, culture, and identity that many Indigenous children endured.
At École 100 Mile Elementary, our students took part in authentic learning experiences, including a smudging ceremony and cultural activities that residential schools once tried to strip away. These experiences remind us of the strength and resilience of Indigenous traditions, and why it is vital to learn with respect and humility.
True reconciliation begins within. It calls us to listen to survivors, to learn about our shared history, and to reflect deeply on our role in building a more respectful future. By honouring Indigenous voices and culture, we commit to ensuring that every child truly matters.
