What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?

As Canada marches towards a brighter, more accommodating future, it is important to remember the wrongs of the past and chart a course for acknowledgment and reconciliation. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed on September 30th, is one such day dedicated to honoring the survivors of residential schools, their families, and the indigenous communities who were the prime victims of this forced removal of children from their families and communities. Its purpose is to reflect on the impacts of this system and work toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.

This article will explore the historical context of this day and its relevance to Canadians.

What is the Residential School System?

Residential schools refer to government-sponsored religious schools that became prominent during the late 19th century. These schools, run in collaboration with various Christian churches, were part of an aggressive assimilation policy that aimed to bring Indigenous children into the Euro-Canadian culture.

The conditions in many of these institutions were questionable at best, with children removed from their homes, placed in schools far from their families, and often subjected to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Many children died due to the harsh conditions, malnutrition, and neglect.

Origins of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) was instrumental in gathering testimonies from survivors, issuing calls to action, and documenting the profound harm caused by the residential school system. In its final report, the TRC characterized the system as cultural genocide and issued 94 Calls to Action to promote healing and reconciliation.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was formed as a result of the TRC’s Call to Action 80, which called for the establishment of a statutory holiday to honor residential school survivors, their families, and communities. In response, the Canadian federal government passed legislation in 2021, officially designating September 30th as this day of reflection and remembrance.

Significance of the Date

September 30th was long observed as Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led initiative by residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad. As a child, Phyllis was sent to a residential school wearing a new orange shirt that was taken from her, symbolizing the stripping away of her culture and identity.

Today, the orange shirt is a symbol of the harm caused to generations of Indigenous children and a reminder that “Every Child Matters.”

Commemorating the Day

On September 30th, events and activities occur across Canada to foster understanding and support for reconciliation. Indigenous communities and organizations lead many of these efforts, including ceremonies, public discussions, art exhibits, and educational workshops. Canadians are encouraged to wear orange shirts as a sign of solidarity and to participate in these activities to learn about Indigenous histories, cultures, and the ongoing legacy of colonialism.

Public institutions, such as schools, government offices, and media outlets, often incorporate programming that educates Canadians about the truths of residential schools and the steps needed to support reconciliation. While the day is a statutory holiday for federal employees and some provinces and territories, it remains a working day in others, where governments decide how to observe it.

Moving Forward: The Path to Reconciliation

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation serves as a day of remembrance and a call to action for all Canadians. While acknowledging historical wrongs is an essential first step, true reconciliation requires ongoing efforts at various levels of society. This includes addressing inequalities Indigenous communities face, honoring treaties, and fostering meaningful partnerships based on mutual respect and understanding.

Conclusion

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a solemn yet hopeful observance that encourages Canadians to reflect on the painful history of the residential school system and commit to building a more inclusive and just future. By acknowledging the past and taking active steps toward healing, the day reinforces that reconciliation is not a one-time event but an ongoing, collective responsibility. Every Canadian has a role in supporting truth, justice, and equity for Indigenous peoples in the country.