Guest Speaker Announcement: Phyllis Webstad | 2026 Rowing Together Gala
We are honoured to announce that Phyllis Webstad, Founder & CEO of the Orange Shirt Society, will join us as a featured guest speaker at the Second Annual Rowing Together Gala.
This year’s theme, The Matriarchs, celebrates Indigenous women whose strength, wisdom and leadership continue to inspire generations and create stronger communities. Phyllis’s remarkable story and lifelong commitment to Truth and Reconciliation embody the spirit of this year’s gathering.
Phyllis is Northern Secwépemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation. Her experience of having her new orange shirt taken from her on her first day at residential school inspired Orange Shirt Day and the message Every Child Matters.
What began as her personal healing journey has grown into a national movement. Today, Phyllis travels across the country sharing her story, raising awareness about the impacts of the Indian Residential School system and creating space for education, healing and reconciliation. She is also the author of The Orange Shirt Story and Phyllis’s Orange Shirt.
Join us for an unforgettable evening
Second Annual Rowing Together Gala
December 2, 2026
Hyatt Regency Vancouver
Come together with community leaders, partners and supporters for an evening of connection, celebration and purpose in support of BC Indigenous Housing Society and the communities we serve.
Early Bird tickets are available for a limited time.
Learn more and reserve your seat:
www.rowingtogether.ca
As September 30 approaches…
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day is an opportunity to listen, learn and reflect on the history and ongoing impacts of the Indian Residential School system.
We encourage everyone to honour Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, support Indigenous communities and continue the work of reconciliation, not only on September 30, but throughout the year.
Every Child Matters.
Photo by Take Off Photography
