Seattle Public Schools

Monthly Native American Observances

Orange Shirt Day

In 1973, Stwecem’c Xgat’tem First Nations citizen Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s new orange shirt, given to her by her grandmother, was taken away the day she arrived at Mission School. She was six years old. In 2013, she founded the Orange Shirt Society as part of her healing journey.

2024 Orange Shirt Day is September 30.

Orange Shirt Day graphic with two hands holding a bird with text Every Child Matters