September 30th has been declared Orange Shirt Day, in recognition of the harm the residential school system did to indigenous children's sense of self-esteem and well being, and as an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone around us matters. It is inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, who attended a residential school in British Columbia in the 1970s. Phyllis was initially excited to go to school and went shopping with her granny to pick out a new outfit for school; she chose a shiny orange shirt. That shirt was taken away from her when she arrived at residential school and was never returned to her. In Phyllis’ own words: “The colour orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared and how I felt like I was worth nothing.” Today, we wear an orange shirt to demonstrate our commitment to reconciliation and to opening and continuing the dialogue about residential schooling.

We believe that “Every Child Matters”. God’s word is clear that every person is created in his image and that each of us carries immense value and worth. It is clear that following Jesus requires us to value others. It is our hope that these resources will help our youth and children embrace the way God values them and those around them, and inspire them to do their part to help others know how much they matter as they live for Jesus in their world. We must listen, we must learn, and we must lead the way to a better future.