On this special episode of Our Storytellers, released on Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we are honoured to be joined by Phyllis Webstad.

Phyllis is a member of the Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation (Secwépemc) and a residential school survivor. She is the visionary founder of the Orange Shirt Day movement, a globally recognized author, and the leader of the Orange Shirt Society.

In this conversation, Phyllis shares the full story behind her orange shirt on her first day at St. Joseph's Mission. She speaks about life growing up with her Granny on the reserve, the creation of the phrase "Every Child Matters," and the journey of turning a painful memory into a powerful movement for justice and remembrance. Going deeper than ever before, Phyllis also opens up about the spiritual visions that have guided her work, connecting her mission to her ancestors and the children who never came home.

This episode is a testament to the power of truth-telling and the resilience of survivors. We are immensely grateful to Phyllis for her courage, her leadership, and for trusting us with her story.

To learn more and support the vital work of the Orange Shirt Society, please visit their official website: orangeshirtday.org. On their site, you can donate directly to the Orange Shirt Society, order orange shirts from one of their official retailers.

You can also order Phyllis Webstad’s books here: https://medicinewheelpublishing.com/phyllis-webstad/?srsltid=AfmBOopOsCyNqDgyp5HJ5wp9lcvos1cVeCe1RC-pwoRGFIoydzkbOjSO

Content Warning: This episode contains detailed discussions of Indian Residential Schools, forced removal of children, intergenerational trauma, and ongoing colonial harm. Please take care while listening.

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Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction

(05:08) Growing Up

(16:07) The Story of the Orange Shirt

(38:31) The Birth of Orange Shirt Day

(53:42) Ceremony

(01:19:50) The Future

(01:25:25) Addressing Denialism

(01:38:15) Protecting Every Child Matters

(01:49:02) Books

(01:58:20) Closing