Understanding Canada's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

What is Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?

Canada will observe its fourth National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2024. This day is recognized by various organizations, companies, and individuals in unique ways, fostering a collective dialogue about its significance.

National Truth and Reconciliation Day is a federal holiday established to “honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities,” according to Canadian Heritage. The Government of Canada emphasizes that publicly commemorating the tragic history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is essential to the reconciliation process. Officially recognized as a holiday on June 3, 2021, it followed the shocking discovery of 215 children at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School, prompting a nationwide reckoning and renewed searches at other former residential school sites. This event led to a deeper examination of Canada’s historical injustices and reignited discussions surrounding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) and its 94 Calls to Action. These calls encourage collaboration among all government levels to rebuild the relationship between Indigenous peoples and other Canadians.

What is Orange Shirt Day? Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots initiative, coincides with National Truth and Reconciliation Day each year on September 30. This movement, which began in British Columbia, aims to foster global conversations about the impacts of residential schools. It is a day for survivors and all those affected by these institutions to feel valued, encapsulated in the phrase “Every Child Matters.”

The movement was inspired by the story of residential school survivor Phyllis (Jack) Webstad. At six years old, her grandmother gifted her an orange shirt to wear to St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School in Williams Lake, BC. Upon arrival, school authorities took the shirt from her, leaving her with a lasting memory of feeling invisible and unimportant. The colour orange now serves as a powerful symbol of this experience.

To participate in Orange Shirt Day, individuals are encouraged to purchase and wear an official Orange Shirt and engage in community events that promote awareness and reflection.

Participating in National Truth and Reconciliation Day Even if you don’t have the day off from work or school, there are numerous ways to engage with National Truth and Reconciliation Day. Individuals can show their support by wearing orange and attending local events, workshops, or performances. Exploring Indigenous culture is encouraged year-round, with various free resources available to deepen understanding.

For those who may need support, the Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is accessible 24/7 at 1-866-925-4419, offering help for anyone experiencing pain or trauma related to their residential school experiences.

Reference: https://dailyhive.com/canada/canada-marks-truth-and-reconciliation-day?utm_source=DH-Vancouver-Buzz&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=ZOOMER240918022_20240925&oly_enc_id=2560E8001634E3W