why do we wear orange on september 30

We wear orange on September 30 to recognize and honor the legacy of Indigenous children who were taken to residential schools in Canada, which caused great harm and loss to Indigenous communities. The day, known as Orange Shirt Day or the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, commemorates the survivors and those who never returned from these schools. Wearing orange symbolizes the stripping away of culture, freedom, and self-esteem from Indigenous children, inspired by Phyllis Webstad's story of having her new orange shirt taken away on her first day at a residential school. The day emphasizes the ongoing need for healing, awareness, and reconciliation, underlining the message that "Every Child Matters".