Mesa Community College's American Indian Institute Presents: Orange Shirt Day Open Mic

Date: September 30, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
Location: MCC Navajo Room, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85202

Orange Shirt Day is a National Day of Reconciliation and Remembrance that honors the Indigenous children who were sent away to residential and boarding schools. The day represents a call to action to ensure that every child matters, and to recognize the ongoing impact of the schools on survivors and their descendants.

Join us for an inspiring evening of poetry, music, and art to honor the resilience, history, and strength of boarding school survivors, victims, and descendants. Experience powerful stories and creative expressions that remember their legacy and celebrate their enduring strength.

Featured Poet and Host: Taté Walker

Special Guests Include:

• Renae Blackwater- Pow Wow Fancy Dance
• Shayna Blackwater - Pow Wow Jingle Dress
• Hopi Dance Group
• Miss Native MCC Royalty - Storytelling

Open Mic Info:

• Sign up at 6:00 PM (everyone welcome)
• Show starts at 6:30 PM
• All poets, lyricists, and musical artists welcome!

Food provided by: The Inter-Tribal Student Organization

More info on Orange Shirt Day:
Orange Shirt Day began in Canada and is now recognized across many countries. It symbolizes the story of Phyllis Webstad, a young girl who had her orange shirt taken from her on her first day at a residential school. The day has since become a powerful symbol of the harm done by these schools, as well as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and addressing the generational trauma caused. Its also a day to honor the strength and resilience of Indigenous peoples as they move forward in healing.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in an event that reflects the healing and enduring strength of Indigenous communities. Lets come together to commemorate this important day of reconciliation and remembrance.