Orange Shirt Day is a day set aside to remember the survivors of the residential school system, as well as the children who passed away while attending these schools.

Keelyn L'Heureux, a student from Morden Collegiate Institute, says the day is about bringing awareness to this history,  so people can avoid repeating it in the future.

"I did a little bit of research, and found that Orange Shirt Day started in 2013 with a lady named Phyllis. When she went to school her mom gave her an orange shirt, and they took it away from her."

Sarah Kagan also took part, and says it was important to take part with fellow students.

"It raises awareness. As well, it helps us with truth and reconciliation, and learning about the different ways we can help heal our past, and direct our future into the right paths."

They agree that a good start on how everyone can take part is joining in every year with Orange Shirt Day, learning more about history, and continually educating yourself on the subject.

Kagan says, "One thing I just recently learned is the different types of calls to action. It's the different ways of how Canada is trying to have an impact, and also help with discrimination and help everyone have the same rights."

As well, L'Heureux notes being open-minded is a huge part of continuing an important conversation.

"Everyone has their own experiences, and they might be hurt because of those . . . Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but we're called to love and help everyone."

Kagan adds, "Learning history, and learning the rights and reconciliation, is a good way to keep going on in the future and make sure we're going in the right path."

Teacher Mike Macaraeg says his fellow staff are great at teaching about our history, but the students are extremely receptive and eager to make positive changes for the future.

Learn more about Orange Shirt Day here: https://www.orangeshirtday.org/