Canada prepares for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Various communities and organizations across Canada are preparing for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30. The observances aim to honor residential school survivors and remember children who never returned home.

In the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, Elders have recommended a focus on uplifting survivors and their descendants through a private community gathering involving cultural sharing and meals. The Nation also marks the anniversary of the ‘Every Child Matters’ crosswalk in North Vancouver.

In Brock Township, local ceremonies will include a flag presentation at the municipal building, while the Durham Region has held walks for reconciliation. Other regional activities include art exhibitions in Trail, British Columbia, featuring Métis, Anishinaabe, Cree, and Hesquiaht artists, and special radio programming across Canada in partnership with the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund.

These events serve to address the legacy of colonization and the residential school system, emphasizing the importance of truth, reconciliation, and the ‘Every Child Matters’ movement.