What is the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation in Canada?

September 30 marks Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. This day honours Indigenous survivors of residential schools and remembers the children who never returned home. For newcomers to Canada, September 30 is a powerful opportunity to learn about the country’s Indigenous history and understand how reconciliation shapes Canadian society today.

The Story Behind Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day began in 2013 as a grassroots movement inspired by Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor from British Columbia.

At six years old, Phyllis arrived at her residential school wearing a new orange shirt her grandmother had bought for her. It was taken away, and she never saw it again. The orange shirt now symbolizes the loss of identity, culture, and dignity that Indigenous children experienced.

Why This Day Matters for All Canadians, Including Newcomers

For anyone living in Canada, including newcomers, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an opportunity to reflect, show respect, and learn. It’s a reminder that understanding Indigenous history helps build a more inclusive future for everyone who calls Canada home.

How to get involved:

• Learn about the history of residential schools.
• Attend community events or ceremonies.
• Support Indigenous-led businesses and artists.
• Wear orange to show solidarity and remembrance.

Truth and Reconciliation: A National Commitment

In 2015, Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) released 94 Calls to Action to help redress the legacy of residential schools. These actions focus on education, justice, and commemoration.

To honour this commitment, Parliament passed Bill C-5 in 2021, officially recognizing September 30 as a federal statutory holiday.

How Canadians Observe Orange Shirt Day

Across Canada, people honour the day in meaningful ways:

• Wear orange: To show support for survivors and their families.
• Attend memorials or educational events: Local communities, schools, and universities hold gatherings.
• Reflect and learn: Many Canadians take time to read the TRC Calls to Action or visit Indigenous cultural centres.
• Watch the National Broadcast: “Remembering the Children: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation” airs annually on APTN and other broadcasters.

Truth and Reconciliation Events Across Canada

Every year, communities nationwide host events to educate and unite Canadians in reflection and reconciliation.

Ottawa, Ontario

• Parliament Hill and government buildings are illuminated orange.
• National commemorative broadcast: “Remembering the Children.”

Winnipeg, Manitoba

• Southern Chiefs’ Organization 5th Annual Orange Shirt Day Healing Walk and Pow Wow at the RBC Convention Centre. Free event featuring intertribal dance specials, drums, and arts and crafts.

Calgary, Alberta

• University of Calgary & Calgary Public Library: Workshops, ceremonies, and public learning sessions about the history of residential schools, intergenerational trauma, and Indigenous resilience.

Toronto, Ontario

• City Hall flags at half-mast; the Toronto sign illuminated orange.

• Community events and storytelling sessions across the city.

Vancouver, British Columbia

• University of British Columbia: Intergenerational March and educational sessions for families.

Is September 30 a Statutory Holiday in Canada?

Not all provinces and territories recognize September 30 as a paid statutory holiday. Here’s the current breakdown (2025):

How Newcomers Can Participate in Reconciliation

Moving to Canada means joining a nation that continues to learn from its past. Participating in reconciliation activities helps build cultural awareness and shows respect for Indigenous communities. Here’s how you can show support and build understanding in simple, respectful ways:

1. 1. Learn and reflect: Read about Truth and Reconciliation and take time on September 30 to think about what it means to you.
   2. Connect: Visit local Indigenous cultural centres or events.
   3. Share: Talk with friends and family about why Every Child Matters.

FAQs about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

What does the orange shirt symbolize?

The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of identity and culture experienced by Indigenous children forced into residential schools. It’s a symbol of resilience and hope for healing.

Is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation the same as Orange Shirt Day?

They are closely connected. Orange Shirt Day began in 2013 as a grassroots movement and later inspired the creation of the federal holiday in 2021.

Can newcomers or non-Indigenous Canadians participate?

Yes. Everyone in Canada can participate, learn, and reflect on the meaning of reconciliation.

How can I learn more about Indigenous history in Canada?

You can visit Reconciliation Information for Newcomers to Canada, explore the Truth and Reconciliation Commission website, or attend community workshops.

Final Thoughts

September 30 is a time to listen, learn, and remember. For newcomers and long-time Canadians alike, acknowledging this day is a step toward understanding, healing, and unity.