What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
Today is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation also known as Orange Shirt Day. On this day, all Canadians are invited to wear an orange shirt “to honour the experiences of Indigenous peoples, celebrate resilience and affirm a commitment that every child matters.” Today is an important day of thoughtful engagement and reflection.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in Canada to acknowledge and address the existence of residential schools and promote healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. The day has been observed annually on September 30th, since 2021, representing an important step towards acknowledging this painful part of Canadian history and working towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
The establishment of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is closely tied to the findings and recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The TRC was created in 2008 as part of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, aiming to document the experiences of Indigenous children who attended residential schools and to promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.
The TRC’s final report, released in 2015, brought to light the profound and lasting impact of the residential school system on Indigenous individuals, families and communities. The report outlined numerous calls to action, including the designation of a national day to honour the survivors, their families, and the children who did not return from the schools.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation serves multiple purposes. It provides an opportunity for Canadians to educate themselves about the history and experiences of Indigenous peoples, particularly related to the existence of the residential school system. It is a day to reflect on the intergenerational effects of the schools and to recognize the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities to this day.
Furthermore, the day aims to foster dialogue and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians, promoting reconciliation and healing. It encourages individuals and communities to engage in activities that promote awareness, education and action towards addressing the systemic issues that contribute to the marginalization and discrimination faced by Indigenous peoples.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a respected and cherished occasion that invites individuals, organizations, and communities to participate in various commemorative events, ceremonies and educational initiatives. It serves as a reminder that acknowledging the truth about Canada’s past is a necessary step towards achieving reconciliation, justice and equality for all, and a fundamental step for Canada to advance together towards a better future.
By designating this as a national day, Canada recognizes the need to confront its history and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a symbol of the collective commitment to learning from the past, honouring the experiences of survivors, and building a future that respects and upholds the rights and dignity of Indigenous peoples.