09/30/2026
September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters began in Williams Lake, British Columbia, on September 30, 2013. Established to honour Residential School Survivors, their families, and those who never returned home, it serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impacts of the Residential School system. What began as a grassroots initiative has since evolved into a nationally recognized movement, with individuals, organizations, and communities across Canada participating in acts of remembrance, reflection, and reconciliation each year.
The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and identity that many Indigenous children experienced. This day reminds us that “Every Child Matters”.
Public commemoration of this tragic chapter in Canada’s history, and its lasting effects, plays an essential role in advancing truth and reconciliation.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day are dedicated to honouring Residential School Survivors, their families, and communities, and to recognize the lasting impacts of Canada’s Residential School system. These commemorations provide an opportunity to deepen Canada’s understanding of the intergenerational effects of residential schools and to reflect on their enduring legacy as part of the ongoing journey toward truth, healing, and reconciliation.
There are several local events today, open to the public, where you can join together in community to remember, reflect, and work toward reconciliation. 🧡
