Truth and Reconciliation Through Sports
The Orange Jersey Project was born out of an idea. “What if we could use the power of sport to serve as a vehicle toward educating today’s young athletes about the history of the Indian Residential School System and strengthen the path toward truth and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.”
The Orange Shirt Society, Keener Jerseys, and premier sponsor Canadian Tire, are proud to announce the formation of the Orange Jersey Project.
We have released hockey in 2022 and plan to release other sports for youth jerseys in the future. Follow us here and on social media for more information.
HOCKEY
For Youth Teams U9 to U18
Teams across Canada are encouraged to get involved. Coaches and Team Managers can register their youth Minor Hockey teams, ranging from U9 to U18 to participate in the Orange Jersey Project. Teams who qualify will receive Orange Jerseys. We will be accepting the first 750 registered Teams. ((Registration is now Full)) any teams entered will now be placed on a waitlist a member of our team will be in contact with teams that are Placed on the waitlist.
Phase 1 of hockey is now Closed. Phase 2 is now Closed October 31, 2022. For all Minor Hockey Teams U9-U18 Teams will now be put on a Waitlist.
Why orange jerseys?
Our idea was to give youth hockey players across Canada an orange jersey to wear at practice, so the players would ask the question “Coach, why are we wearing orange jerseys?” This simple question has the power to change how Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities live together.
Together, we can help our young athletes learn about the history of the Indian Residential School System and actively participate in reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Celebrate Indigenous Athletes Past & Present
Indigenous athletes, past and present, have excelled in sport. We can all agree that for young people to feel inspired and believe in their own greatness, representation is very important.
Call to action number 87 in the Truth and Reconciliation report invites us to celebrate and “provide public education that tells the national story of Aboriginal athletes in history.”
The Orange Jersey
Project Objectives
To inform, educate, and engage with youth about the history of the residential school system
Promote truth and reconciliation throughout Canada
Promote physical and mental wellness of Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth through sport
Start Sharing
Your team can help support the Orange Jersey Project.
Simply download our social media kit and start sharing!
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