From September 18-28, 2023, the Indigenous Student Centre will be selling orange toques for $20 (cash, credit and debit accepted) to raise funds for Finding Our Power Together's Orange Heart Club program. One hundred percent of the proceeds will be donated to FOPT.
"Finding Our Power Together (FOPT) is an Indigenous-led non-profit organization supporting Indigenous youth to access support and relationships that enable them to thrive. FOPT offers a variety of therapeutic and educational programs designed to develop community, increase capacity, and promote wholistic well-being."
Click here to make a donation directly to Finding Our Power Together.
Who created the design?
The artwork in the hat design, featuring interlocking hands made to resemble a sweetgrass braid, was created by OCAD U alumni Mariah Meawasige (Serpent River First Nation).
Where can I purchase a toque?
Public Sale - Tuesday September 19 and 26 from 11am-2pm in the Lobby of 100 McCaul Street, OCAD University
OCAD U Sale - Weekdays (September 18-28) from 10am-4pm in the Indigenous Student Centre, 113 McCaul Street, Level 4, Room 410.
Toques will be available for Indigenous OCAD U students at no cost, for a limited time. Please contact or visit the ISC for more information.
Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation at OCAD University
Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation is observed annually on September 30th. Orange Shirt Day was started by survivor Phyllis (Jack) Webstad. Phyllis was gifted a new orange shirt by her grandmother for her first day of school. Her shirt along with other items, was taken away on her first day of residential school at St. Joseph's Mission in British Columbia. The National Day for Truth & Reconciliation honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities.
These dates will be observed at OCAD University on Friday September 29, 2023 and classes will be cancelled. More information about events at OCAD U will be posted in the coming weeks.
The Indigenous Student Centre will be closed on Friday September 29.
Need someone to talk to?
The list below contains 24/7 support services for Indigenous people.
- Indian Residential School Crisis Line (For Survivors and Family) 1-866-925-4419
- Kids Help Phone Indigenous people can connect with an Indigenous crisis responder by messaging FIRST NATIONS, INUIT, or METIS to 686868 for young people and 741741 for adults or through Facebook Messenger
- FNMI Hope for Wellness Hotline 1-855-242-3310
- Anishnawbe Mental Health Crisis Line 416- 891-8606
- Talk4Healing Indigenous Women 1-855-554-4325
- Aboriginal Crisis Intervention Line 416-531-0330