Show your support for Indigenous communities and raise awareness about the impact of residential schools by wearing our Orange Shirt Day 2023 Guardians. Designed by Ojibwe artist ‘Emjee’ from Sagamok First Nation, this powerful design pays tribute to the resilience and spirit of Indigenous people.

Orange Shirt Day 2023 Guardians – Guardians of Every Child

This year, our featured design, “Guardians,” pays a powerful tribute to the resilience and spirit of Indigenous communities. Drawn in a Modern Woodlands style by Ojibwe designer ‘Emjee’ from Sagamok First Nation, the design encapsulates the vital essence of Indigenous heritage and spiritual guidance. The “Guardians” design showcases two Indigenous children on a journey westward under the watchful eyes of a bear spirit and a flyer spirit. The Bear, or “Makwa” in Anishinaabemowin, is known for its bravery and protective nature, while the flyer spirit, “Binesi,” guides us during trying times. Intricately woven into the roots of the ground in the design are the words “Every Child Matters.” This subtly highlights the interconnectedness of all elements in the image and underlines the significance of the profound movement.

The Orange Shirt Day 2023 Guardians is made from 100% cotton and has a classic fit that runs true to size. It is available in unisex-youth sizes and can be pre-ordered for delivery in July/August 2023. The T-shirt is designed, owned, and operated by Indigenous people, and purchasing it supports their communities. By wearing this T-shirt on Orange Shirt Day, you are raising awareness of the individual, family, and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and promoting the concept that Every Child Matters.