Join us for an inspiring event of Indigenous knowledge, storytelling, and reconciliation, with speaker Phyllis Webstad. Phyllis Webstad is the Founder and CEO of the Orange Shirt Society. At the age of six, Phyllis was sent to St. Joseph Mission Residential School, and her belongings were taken from her on the first day, including her orange shirt that her grandmother had given her. Now, she tours the country telling her story and raising awareness about the impacts of the residential school system, and the orange shirt has become a symbol of hope, reconciliation and a commitment to a better future. During the event, there will be opportunities to listen to Phyllis' story and discuss actionable steps toward reconciliation.
Date: Tuesday March 24, 2026
Time: 7:30-9:30pm (Refreshments start at 7pm)
Venue: Conrad Grebel University College's Dining Room
The event is co-hosted by the Office of Indigenous Relations, Mennonite Central Committee Ontario and Conrad Grebel University College. Students from all disciplines are welcomed.
Phylis Webstad
Phylis Webstad is a Northern Secwpemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band). She comes from mixed Secwepemc and Irish/French heritage, was born in Dog Creek, and lives in Williams Lake, BC. Today, Phyllis is married, has one son, a stepson and five grandchildren. Phyllis has now published five books, including the “Orange Shirt Story” and “Phyllis’s Orange Shirt” for younger children, and is releasing two more books this year.
