Thursday, September 23, 2021 – Since 2013, September 30 has been commemorated as Orange Shirt Day across Canada in honour of the Survivors of Indian Residential Schools. Starting this year, September 30 will also now be designated as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The date was declared a statutory federal holiday with the passage of Bill C-5 in June of this year, in response to one of the 94 Calls to Action of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
This day is an important step in the reconciliation process. It provides an opportunity to recognize and commemorate the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools, and to honour their survivors, their families and communities.
- Support Indigenous Businesses
- Wear an orange shirt
- Give an Acknowledgement
- Download, print and display an Every Child Matters heart in your window.
The District of Sooke Municipal Hall will be closed Thursday, September 30th as we observe National Truth and Reconciliation Day.
Resources:
- OrgangeShirtDay.org
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
- Government of Canada, Marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
- Government of Canada, Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
- Beyond 94: Truth and Reconciliation in Canada
Immediate support:
- The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
Available 24 hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their Residential school experience.
WATCH, Phyllis’ story: