on-demand event

Orange Shirt Day 2023

with David A. Robertson

David A. Robertson | Virtual Author Visit

Recorded Live on Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Now Available On-Demand!

Join us for a meaningful and engaging Orange Shirt Day event designed specifically for students in grades 1-4. Through storytelling, interactive activities, and thoughtful discussion, this event introduces learners to the importance of truth and reconciliation in Canada.

Led by David A. Robertson, award-winning author of When We Were Alone, students will explore the experiences of Indigenous children in residential schools and the strength found in family, culture, and community. David’s heartfelt story connects deeply with themes of identity, kindness, and the importance of remembering our history to build a better future.

About the Author

David. A Robertson is the author of numerous books for young readers including When We Were Alone and On the Trapline which both won Governor General’s Literary Award. David is also the author of a middle-grade fantasy series called The Misewa Saga. A sought after speaker and educator, David is a member of Norway House Cree Nation and lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

About the Book

An empowering story of resistance that gently introduces children to the history of residential schools in Canada.

A young girl notices things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long, braided hair and beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak Cree and spend so much time with her family? As the girl asks questions, her grandmother shares her experiences in a residential school, when all of these things were taken away.

Event Information

Agenda
Key Messages Students Will Learn
Questions?
Agenda

what to expect

Welcome
Featured Story Reading
Author’s Presentation
BRAIN BREAK
Q&A with the Author
Wrap Up

Key Messages Students Will Learn

The Importance of Orange Shirt Day: Honoring Indigenous children who attended residential schools and understanding the lasting impact on their families and communities.
Identity and Culture: Why being proud of who we are—including our language, traditions, and appearance—is important, and how these parts of ourselves make us stronger.
Empathy and Understanding: Why it’s important to listen to and respect the stories of others, especially those who have experienced hardship.
The Power of Family and Community: How staying connected to family and community helps us feel supported, loved, and proud.
Celebrating Diversity: Every child is unique and important. Students will learn that our differences should be celebrated, not erased.

Questions?

Questions?

Hi, I’m Hayley! I am the Lead Educator here at Joyful Learning and the host of this event. If you have any questions about this event (or anything else) feel free to contact me. I’m here to help!

I have a question

Tickets by Donation

Joyful Learning is a non-profit organization committed to creating affordable events and resources. Your generous donation will be used to support the ongoing development of our events and resources.

All rates give you access to the Event Recording for one month. Purchase one ticket per class or family. Please select a rate that is possible for you. To learn more about our Equitable Pricing Model, click here.

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key details

Recorded on Sept. 26, 2023
45 minutes
Grade 1-4
By Donation

what teachers are saying

Your sessions are always filled with great learning, wonderful resources, and you plan activities well to meet the needs of young learners by including movement breaks.
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