September 30 All day
Every year on September 30, Canada observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a significant day dedicated to honouring the children who never returned home and the Survivors of residential schools, along with their families and communities.
This day is a solemn reminder of the tragic and painful history and the ongoing impacts of residential schools on Indigenous communities.
This is a stat holiday, so schools and many businesses will be closed.
In Campbell River
There will be a ceremony at Spirit Square @ 11am observing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and hounoring the children of residential schools.
Wear an orange shirt – the orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over many generations.
The Significance of September 30
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a federal statutory holiday, established through legislative amendments made by Parliament. It serves as a moment for all Canadians to engage in public commemoration and reflect on the deep scars left by the residential school system.
The Importance of Wearing Orange
September 30 is not only the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation but also Orange Shirt Day. Originating as an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day, Orange Shirt Day raises awareness about the inter-generational impacts of residential schools on individuals, families, and communities.
The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over many generations.
The message of “Every Child Matters” is at the heart of Orange Shirt Day, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing the experiences of these children and their communities.
How You Can Participate
On September 30, all Canadians are encouraged to wear orange. By doing so, we collectively honour the thousands of Survivors of residential schools and acknowledge their enduring strength and resilience.
Whether you participate by donning an orange shirt, sharing information about this day, or engaging in educational activities, your actions contribute to the ongoing journey of reconciliation.
Together, let’s make September 30 a day of remembrance, reflection, and a step towards healing as we honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Stay tuned to our events calendar for events happening around Campbell River on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
