Phyllis Webstad, a member of the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation, inspired an entire country with her story, leading to the tradition of wearing orange on September 30th in honor of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, originally known as Orange Shirt Day. Beyond the Orange Shirt Story is a collective memoir reflecting six generations of Survivors and intergenerational Survivors as they discuss the impact of the residential school system through true stories of resistance, resilience, remembrance, and healing. The text begins with a “what you need to know” page that provides context and shares the Protocols used to collect these truths from Webstad’s family and friends—authentically, in their own words, and with permission. The stories are brought to life through the sharing of personal photographs and lived experiences, reminding readers of their responsibility to learn, unlearn, and to take action. The text is accompanied by a teacher lesson plan. Also available in French as Derrière l'histoire du chandail orange.

Cautions / Content Warnings: This book may be a trigger for some readers.
Other End Matter: Information on how to access online classroom and teacher lesson plan
Images: Colour photographs, b&w photographs
Contributor Affiliation: Author Phyllis Webstad (Northern Secwépemc from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation)
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - Indigenous Books for Schools

Phyllis Webstad's profile page

Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) is Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation (Canoe Creek/Dog Creek). She comes from mixed Secwepemc and European ancestry. Born in Dog Creek, Phyllis is married, has one son, a step-son, five grandchildren, and now lives in Williams Lake, BC. Phyllis earned diplomas in both Business Administration and Accounting and is the Executive Director of the Orange Shirt Society. The author of multiple books, she tours the country telling her story and raising awareness about the impacts of the Residential School System. Her simple orange shirt has become a conversation starter for all aspects of Residential School across Canada and beyond.