National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day
September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
On this day, we come together to honour the Indigenous children who never returned home and the Survivors of residential schools, along with their families and communities.
This day calls on all of us to reflect on the painful history of residential schools and to stand with Indigenous communities across Canada. It’s not just about looking back, but about moving forward together, with empathy and understanding, as we walk the path of reconciliation.
It's also Orange Shirt Day, a powerful Indigenous-led movement born from the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose personal experience reflects the deep pain felt by generations of Indigenous peoples. The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, identity, and dignity—but it also represents resilience, strength, and the belief that Every Child Matters.
What can you do?
Take time to explore Indigenous histories, cultures, and languages, and understand the lasting impacts of residential schools.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, especially Call 80, guide us on how we can contribute to meaningful change. Educating ourselves is an essential part of reconciliation.
- Wear orange: Wearing orange on September 30 is more than a gesture. It’s a statement of solidarity with Survivors, their families, and those who never made it home. It shows that you are listening, learning, and committed to the messages that Every Child Matters.
- Honour the stories of survivors: Listening to the stories of residential school Survivors allows us to bear witness to their experiences and understand the ongoing impacts. Visit the Legacy of Hope Foundation to hear these powerful voices.
- Participate in local events: Events such as a Sacred Fire Ceremony and a community gathering offer space for reflection, healing, and solidarity. Visit the City of Kingston or Queen’s University for more event information.
- Donate: Support Indigenous-led organizations that are working towards healing and reconciliation, including:
Resources for Indigenous Peoples
For Indigenous community members, September 30 is also a day for reflection and healing. Here are some support services and resources available for those in need of support:
- Hope for Wellness Help Line: Offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention for Indigenous peoples. Available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
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- Phone: 1-855-242-3310
- Hope for Wellness
- National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: A 24-hour national crisis line to provide support for former residential school students and their families.
- Phone: 1-866-925-4419
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, Transgender, and Gender Diverse People's Crisis: Confidential emotional support to those affected by the ongoing crisis of violence and loss in Indigenous communities.
- Phone: 1-844-413-6649
Reconciliation is not just a single day, but a continuous journey of listening, learning, and taking action. By committing to these efforts, we contribute to healing and the creation of a future where Indigenous children and communities can thrive.
On September 30, we will wear our orange shirts to honour Survivors, remember those who never made it home, and reaffirm that Every Child Matters.