On September 30th, Canada marks National Truth and Reconciliation Day.  A day dedicated to reflecting on the country's colonial history and the lasting impact of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples.  It's an opportunity for Canadians to come together, honour the survivors of residential schools, remember the children who never came home, and acknowledge the intergenerational trauma still felt by Indigenous communities.  The effects of this systemic abuse are profound, leading to the loss of culture, language and, tragically many lives.  Survivors and their families continue to feel the painful repercussions of this history today.

National Truth and Reconciliation Day is more than just a day of reflection; it is a call to action.  It challenges us to confront the injustices of the past and work toward a future that acknowledges the wrongs done to Indigenous Peoples, and actively strives for healing, justice and true reconciliation.  Reconciliation is not a one-time act but a continuous commitment.  By confronting the injustices of the past, we can work together to address the inequalities that persist today, particularly when it comes to Indigenous rights, land and culture.

The Legacy of Residential Schools
  From the late 19th century until 1996, over 150,000 Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their homes and placed into residential schools across Canada.  These institutions, often run by religious organizations, sought to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture  Many children experienced neglect, abuse, and the loss of their language, culture, and identity.  The impacts of this system are still deeply felt today.

Why September 30th

National Truth and Reconciliation Day coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots movement that started in 2013 to honour Phyllis Webstad, a survivor of residential schools.  As a child, Phyllis had her new orange shirt taken away from her on her first day at a residential school, symbolizing the loss of her identity and culture.  The orange shirt has since become a powerful symbol of remembrance for the children who suffered under the residential school system. 

How Can We Engage in Reconciliation

Educate Yourself

• Learn about the history of residential schools, treaties, and the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities. 

• The Yellowhead Institute is and Indigenous-led research and education center based in the Faculty of Arts at the Toronto Metropolitan University.

• Take time to read the TRC's 94 Calls to Action.  Reflect on how you or your organization can support them.

Wear Orange

• Wearing an orange shirt on September 30th is a visual reminder of the children who were taken from their families and communities.  It's a simple, yet powerful way to show your solidarity.

Support Indigenous-Led Initiatives

• Support Indigenous organizations, businesses, authors, authors, or attend community led events that are vital to the culture revival and economic empowerment of Indigenous communities.

Truth and Reconciliation requires more than commitment to just one day.  Let us acknowledge, listen, learn and act.  The road to reconciliation is long, but together, through understanding and respect, we can walk it side by side.