In support of Orange Shirt Day, Indigenous publishers offer books that schools can use to teach Indigenous history. These books help communities preserve First Nations languages and help students learn about local culture and history. These books are available in some bookshops and local libraries, including in Indigenous-led libraries.
In isolated BC communities, many Indigenous-led libraries are installed in partnership with Write to Read BC and its sponsors. One such sponsor is First Nations family-owned GoodMinds.com, which supplies and regularly donates books by Indigenous authors, illustrators, and translators. It offers an entire collection of books for Orange Shirt Day:
The books in this selection were inspired by Phyllis Webstad’s story. They tell how, on her first day at Indian residential school, Phyllis’ orange shirt was taken away from her. That shirt became a symbol for a grassroots movement. The movement focuses on colonial history and its effects, from a First Nations perspective. Across BC, Indigenous-led libraries play a part. This includes the 20 libraries installed in partnership with Write to Read BC.
On Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Write to Read BC’s co-lead Shirley-Pat Gale voiced support. “We’re honoured to continue to work with Indigenous communities across BC,” Gale wrote. She also recognised the importance of collaborative partnerships. “In 2026-2027, our team is delighted by the continued, ongoing support of:
- the Wosk Foundation,
- Supporting Indigenous Libraries Trust,
- Goodminds Books, and
- our Rotary family.”
To find out how you can volunteer with or donate to Write to Read BC’s team, please contact us.