An 18-year-old kanyen’kehá:ka artist with roots in Tyendinaga, Strickland will be attending University of Ottawa starting this Fall. Her submission to the contest included a design that portrays great meaning and thought.
“An important element in the design I created are strawberries, which are not often seen in orange shirt day designs; however, I feel they are a meaningful symbol, especially on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation,” shares Juliana. “I wanted to incorporate wild strawberries as they are a symbol associated with the ability to give life. I think it is important to recognize the loss of the children who attended residential schools, and in addition to that, the profound impact of the loss of these children on the community, including their mothers who gave them life. To show this mourning, the leaves are red, to represent the blood of those who were lost to residential schools.”
100% of the proceeds from the sale of these shirts will go to the . To purchase your shirt, please visit the .
“The strawberry plant serves as an important symbol for mourning, connection, hope, and life — four important concepts to acknowledge on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.”
Juliana Strickland
Every year, in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the ILSG hosts an artwork contest. The winning artwork is selected by members of the ILSG and printed on orange T-shirts, which are sold in the weeks leading up to September 30. By creating these t-shirts each year, the ILSG ignites a communal effort to combine creativity and awareness as a symbol of understanding for the strength and resilience of the Indigenous community. Every t-shirt acting as a canvas to open the door for conversation and to encourage reflection.
“It is so meaningful to be able to witness the ILSG executive put so much hard work into organizing a contest, creating orange shirts and raising money for an important cause.”
Tasha Simon, Specialist, Indigenous Programs
When people purchase one of these shirts, they are not only wearing a piece of art, but also supporting a charitable effort that works to foster healing and empowerment. Every effort contributes to the change we strive to achieve and creates opportunity for important conversations.
“There are so many times that I feel small and unseen,” says Samantha Moreau, co-president of ILSG. “It can be hard learning about a legal system that was built to oppress our community and even though there have been many changes, still oppresses members of our community now. When I think of Orange T-shirts and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I think of the sea of orange that I have seen the past few years. I think some people don't know how they can contribute to truth and reconciliation in a meaningful way, and I can tell you that this is one such way to do so. Supporting Indigenous businesses or initiatives where possible is a great way to show your support and is so appreciated by our community.
“Seeing members of our Faculty and student body showing up to support our community in this way makes me grateful.” Samantha Moreau, co-president of ILSG
Juliana also accepts requests for commissions. You can contact her by sending her an email directly [email protected].
