Orange Shirt Awareness Workshop

Join us for a hands-on workshop where participants will learn a simple beaded edge technique on orange pellon to create their own beaded pin—a piece they can wear on Orange Shirt Day (September 30) to honor the children who never returned from residential schools and to affirm that Every Child Matters. The orange shirt symbolizes the stripping away of Indigenous identity and culture, while also representing resilience, remembrance, and healing. The workshop will be guided by Pearl White Quills, from the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy), Niitsitapi (The Real People) Siksika, Kainai, and Amskapi Piikani Nations. Blessed with the name Aa koa miyanist tsi'nih kiaki ~ Sings Many Different Songs Woman, Pearl is the founder of Bright Swan Creations. Facilitating workshops that pass on teachings has become her passion, with a mission to “Empower First Nations in all forms of artistry, having our Spirituality as the foundation. Inspiring healing through unity, as one.” Pearl will be joined by Kathy Four Horns Niitsitapiaki - Blackfoot Matriarch from Siksikaitsitapi - Blackfoot Confederacy. Kathy is a Residential School Survivor. This workshop is not only an opportunity to learn beading techniques, but also to connect with Indigenous culture, teachings, and the spirit of reconciliation.