On September 30th, we wear orange shirts in honour of the healing journey of Residential School survivors and their families and to affirm our commitment to reconciliation and anti-racism.
This year's shirts and hoodies are designed by Indigenous artist Stacia Goodman, who is a Liqwiltox̌ artist (part of the Kwakwakaw’wakw peoples) and member of the We Wai Kai First Nation, originating from the traditional territory of Tsa-Kwa-Luten (Cape Mudge on Quadra Island, British Columbia).
Artist Statement:
“Mother Bear Energy”
For such an intimidating predator with impressive teeth and claws, mother bears are one of the most loving and caring creatures to their children. They are also ferocious defenders of their cubs and are a force to be reckoned with. This immense inner strength reminds me of the untapped raw power in all our Indigenous women who act as warriors and healers.
In my piece, I wanted to capture that beautiful spirit of a protective warrior and an uplifting healer full of love. Our inner warrior can show those teeth and claws, never backing down when it comes to fighting for what is just and right when it comes to our people. Our inner healer does the challenging work, practicing love and lateral kindness, choosing to be a toxic cycle breaker and uplifting those who surround us in our communities.
I thought this duality of love and strength was such fitting energy to bring into a representation of an orange shirt day design.
-Stacia Goodman, We Wai Kai Nation
Orange Shirt Day is on September 30th, and our 2022 shirts and hoodies are available now for purchase online at www.indigenousmarketing.ca. For your schools, businesses, clubs, and organizations, we also offer savings on quantities of 12+ and 24+. Get them while they last!