Staff and students gathered today at St. Thomas Aquinas High School to recognize Orange Shirt Day. The event focused on increasing awareness of the residential school experience and hope for generations of children to come. The school chose to organize their event today, on October 3rd, to recognize the signing of the treaty of Treaty #3 that happened on October 3, 1873. Mandy a Grade 7 student took part in the event and talks about why the event was important. "Today was important because every child matters and the history of residential schools was terrible. Children were not able to celebrate their culture, speak their language or see their families. Every year we should recognize this day." During the event there was a sense of unity and acceptance with various activities, and a knowledge challenge. The event concluded with a dance and traditional drumming. Kate, a Grade 7 student, shared what she is taking away from the event. "I learned that no matter what happens you should be kind to children and everyone matters in the world." Everyone who attended the event was provided with a symbolic orange.