Every Child Matters Short Sleeve Tee

The artist's design for the Every Child Matters campaign is a truly heartfelt and powerful tribute, born from a deep understanding of Indigenous spirituality.

The core of this design is the belief that our ancestors come from the stars, and when we pass, we return to them. This beautiful concept offers a profound sense of comfort, reminding us that there is a sacred journey for every soul. The inclusion of the 215+ children is a tender acknowledgment of the immense loss and pain caused by residential schools. The design gently suggests that these children are not lost; they have begun their journey to return to their ancestors in the stars.

This journey is made even more poignant with the presence of the Thunderbeings, who are believed to be lovingly escorting the children home. This powerful imagery assures us that the children are not alone; they are being guided and protected by their relatives and powerful spiritual beings as they make their way back to their ancestral home.

Ultimately, the design is a profound message of hope and remembrance. It honors the children's spiritual journey, celebrates their enduring connection to their ancestors, and reassures us that they are now at peace.

Artist:
Kyle Copenace is an Anishinaabe inini (Ojibwe man), father and husband who finds strength and balance through being on the land fishing & hunting, language, and attending ceremony. Kyle’s creativity and art is expressed through leatherwork that is used for pow wow regalia. Kyle is connected to his community, he carries forward the teachings of his people while also navigating the intergenerational impacts of residential schools, which his Mom and Dad both attended. Kyle honors his culture and traditions as a way of healing, grounding, and giving back.

Design: Kyle Copenace, digitally adapted by Urban Tactical's Adam Pagtakhan.