National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Difference between revisions
Created page with "The '''National Day for Truth and Reconciliation''' is observed in Canada on '''September 30''' each year. It is a '''federal statutory holiday''' established to honour Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, and to encourage public education and reflection on the legacy of the residential school system. == Background and Purpose == The day responds to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, particularly those that emp..." |
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== How the Day Is Observed == | == How the Day Is Observed == | ||
Common forms of observance include: | Common forms of observance include: | ||
* Wearing '''orange shirts''' and sharing the message | * Wearing '''orange shirts''' and sharing the message '''Every Child Matters''' | ||
* Hosting or attending community events, teachings, and commemorations | * Hosting or attending community events, teachings, and commemorations | ||
* Reading Survivors’ testimonies and learning local histories | * Reading Survivors’ testimonies and learning local histories | ||
Latest revision as of 23:53, 31 August 2025
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed in Canada on September 30 each year. It is a federal statutory holiday established to honour Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, and to encourage public education and reflection on the legacy of the residential school system.
Background and Purpose
The day responds to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, particularly those that emphasize commemoration, education, and public awareness. It invites everyone in Canada to learn about residential schools, listen to Survivors, and take part in reconciliation efforts with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Establishment
- Created as a federal statutory holiday in 2021 through amendments to the Canada Labour Code and the Bills establishing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
- Aligns with community-led Orange Shirt Day, which began as a grassroots commemoration and continues on the same date.
Date and Status
- Date: September 30 (annually)
- Status: Federal statutory holiday (federal public service, federally regulated workplaces).
Note: Observance requirements for provincial/territorial public sectors and private employers may vary by jurisdiction and can change over time.
How the Day Is Observed
Common forms of observance include:
- Wearing orange shirts and sharing the message Every Child Matters
- Hosting or attending community events, teachings, and commemorations
- Reading Survivors’ testimonies and learning local histories
- School, workplace, and public-sector programming focused on education and reflection
- Partnering with Indigenous organizations, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers
Learning and Reflection
Suggested learning paths:
- Review the TRC’s history, findings, and 94 Calls to Action
- Learn about the experiences of Survivors and intergenerational impacts
- Explore Indigenous languages, cultures, and nation-to-nation relationships
- Support Indigenous-led initiatives and cultural centres
Relationship to Orange Shirt Day
- Orange Shirt Day originated from Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s story and is community-driven.
- The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is the federal statutory observance on the same date.
Many institutions mark both together on September 30 with education, remembrance, and community events.
Symbols
- Orange shirt – symbol of the children whose lives were changed or lost at residential schools
- Every Child Matters – guiding message emphasizing dignity, safety, and cultural belonging
Related Pages
- Orange Shirt Day
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission
- Indigenous Peoples of Canada
- Government of Canada
- Canadian History