September 30 is Truth and Reconciliation Day

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established on the first of June 2008 to document the history and impacts of the residential schools on Canada's Indigenous communities. In the Commission’s Final Report, one of the ninety-four calls to action included establishing a statutory holiday. 

The Government of Canada recently passed legislation to designate September 30 a federal holiday called National Truth and Reconciliation Day. It is a day set aside for recognizing and acknowledging the history and intergenerational trauma which the establishment of residential schools created among Indigenous families and their communities. National Truth and Reconciliation Day provides an opportunity for honouring and celebrating the survivors, their families, and their communities.

As we prepare to acknowledge National Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30, we can show our support by participating in events honouring Indigenous people and educating ourselves on Indigenous history. 

Please use the following links to sign up for events and activities that can enhance your knowledge of Indigenous history and culture. 

• Downie Wenjack Foundation: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: schedule of events for the general public
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: calls to action
• Indian Horse: A film (An adaptation of Ojibway writer Richard Wagamese’s award-winning novel, this moving and important drama sheds light on the dark history of Canada’s boarding schools or Indigenous Residential Schools and the indomitable spirit of aboriginal people.)
• Wawahte: A film (story of residential school survivors)

You can order your orange shirt or other gifts or merchandise that supports Indigenous communities at Atlohsa Gifts or IndigenArtsy.