Thousands in Winnipeg take part in Orange Shirt Day

With events happening across Canada for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, tens of thousands gathered in Winnipeg for Orange Shirt Day.

The day held even greater meaning this year, as for the first time in Manitoba, it was recognized as statutory holiday in the province.

That led to the fourth annual Orange Shirt Day hosted by Wa-Say Healing Centre, with roughly 15,000 people flooding the streets of Winnipeg in orange, to recognize Canada’s residential school legacy and honour those affected by it.

“We’re coming together as family, that’s what we mean when we talk about ‘every child matters,’ we’re talking about what happened and what will never happen again,” said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs Organization.

“I’m grateful we have so much support this year, my heart is emotional today and thinking of my friends who didn’t make it,” added residential school survivor Sue Caribou.

The event this year came close to not happening after losing funding, but organizers got help from the province and other Indigenous organizations.

Once marchers reached the RBC Convention Centre, a pow-wow kicked off. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, in full regalia, led the opening dance.

Kinew went on to speak about his father, who attended the St. Mary’s residential school outside Kenora, Ont., as a child.

“When he was a little boy, I don’t think he could have imagined seeing a sight like we’re all witnessing here today,” the premier said.

Kinew also spoke directly to the youth in attendance, encouraging them to remember their traditions and be proud of who they are.

“I want to tell you to keep your language strong, body strong, mind strong, language strong, where your hair long,” he said.

There was also a moment for everyone to honour the late Grand Chief Cathy Merrick with a video of her speaking at last year’s Orange Shirt Day.

The tribute was followed by a walk from her family, who were given a star blanket in remembrance of all the change she made.

“Cathy was one of the first to show up, be a part of our grand entry and dances, always giving words of wisdom and support,” said Wayne Mason, the executive director of the Wa-Say Healing Centre. “And today unfortunately she’s not here with us, but I wanted to pay tribute.”

Mason was overjoyed by the day, saying even though there were struggles with funding, he would do it again in a heartbeat, adding while Orange Shirt Day happens once a year, “every child matters” is forever.

“We need to educate our Indigenous and non-Indigenous of what had happened in these school, learn about the history,” he said. “Those impacts of what happened is going to be inter-generational, so we have a lot of healing to do.”

Mason is hopeful they will receive more funding and won’t have to shut their doors, but says for next year he does want to create a committee for Orange Shirt Day, as he says the turnout will only get bigger.