Our classrooms today have a strong emphasis on feeling safe and welcome in September. I remember feeling intimidated and overwhelmed on the first day of school. However, when I compare my childhood experience to the stories told by residential school survivors I am deeply saddened and want to support Indigenous Peoples by sharing the truth about residential schools. I am an Irish-Canadian so I read books written by Indigenous authors to give authentic voice to this topic. Here are some suggestions of books that can be read in September to prepare students for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th, also known as Orange Shirt Day.
Phyllis Webstad
There are several excellent books by Phyllis Webstad, who is the founder of the Orange Shirt movement. Her 2018 book, “The Orange Shirt Story” has details about her experiences in residential school and the painful separation from her grandmother. This book is better suited to students who are in grade 3 and up. Her 2019 version of this story is intended for younger readers and is entitled “Phyllis’s Orange Shirt”.
In 2022 Phyllis created “With Our Orange Hearts” with illustrator Emily Kewageshig. Written in rhyming couplets this book explains why September 30th is known as Orange Shirt Day and the meaning behind the phrase, “Every Child Matters”. It is appropriate for all ages and has familiar symbols in the artwork that create interesting discussions in class. There are many hearts and butterflies throughout the story as well as an eagle, feathers, stars, the sun, a rainbow and children in a circle. The art supports the story beautifully. Teachers using this book could then integrate this read aloud with art appreciation and explore other work by Emily Kewageshig on her website.
“Every Child Matters” was published in 2023 with illustrations by Karlene Harvey. It reviews Phyllis’s experience as a child at residential school in more detail than the 2022 book and has an afterward which can help teachers develop a better understanding of the history. The artist has included Indigenous cultural symbols such as medicine wheels, smudging, lacrosse and fishing. I love rich illustrations which go beyond the words to help readers better understand the story.
“I am Not a Number” by Jenny Kay Dupuis and Kathy Kacer
I would only use this book with students in junior or intermediate grades. When sharing stories like this one, it is important to be aware of our students. There may be students in the class who are related to residential school survivors. There may be students who have been through traumatic experiences that could be triggered by the situations described in residential schools.
For suggestions on how to use this book check out the review in ETFO Voice https://etfovoice.ca/node/1347 .
“Stolen Words” by Melanie Florence
The grandfather in this book was forbidden to use his first language when he went to residential school. It is a moving story as the granddaughter listens to what happened to him and then brings home a dictionary so they can learn the Cree language together. I use this book annually in my primary classes but can be used with any age group. There is an underlying message of hope, as there is in Phyllis Webstad’s books. It promotes the idea that by listening and understanding we can make positive change for the future.
ETFO Resources
https://etfofnmi.ca/truth-and-reconciliation/
https://etfofnmi.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/EWS_Healing-Conversations_Final_2024.pdf
