(February 11, 2022 – Toronto, ON) Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare issued the following statement in response to the recent announcement of February 11 as Orange Shirt Day:

“It is disrespectful and deeply offensive to co-opt Orange Shirt Day, along with the phrase Every Child Matters, as a symbol of unity for those participating in the so-called Freedom Convoy. The Chiefs of Ontario do not support February 11, 2022, as Orange Shirt Day,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare.

“September 30 is Orange Shirt Day, and it represents not only Phyllis Webstab’s experience but also many children who attended residential schools. Indigenous and non-Indigenous people must acknowledge the history and legacy of residential schools, as well as the children whose bodies have been found in unmarked graves across the country this past year.

We all have a role to play in building a more inclusive country. We must continue to work together to eliminate racism and discrimination in all forms and educate ourselves on cultural appropriation and tokenizing Indigenous trauma.

Phyllis Webstab and the Orange Shirt Society have publicly stated that they do not condone the recent announcement of Orange Shirt Day occurring on February 11 by protest organizers. On behalf of the Chiefs in Ontario, we stand with the Orange Shirt Society and Phyllis Webstab and do not support February 11 as Orange Shirt Day.”

The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of a residential school experience. Support is available at 1-866-925-4419.

Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare

– 30 –

 

The Chiefs of Ontario support all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @ChiefsOfOntario.

Media inquiries, please contact:

Genna Benson
Communications and Public Affairs Manager
Policy and Communications Sector
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-523-4020
Email: Genna.Benson@coo.org