What is Canada National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a public holiday in Canada on September 30 for workers employed by the federal government or in workplaces that the federal government regulates.
The purpose of this day is to remind Canadians about the history of residential schools and recognize the survivors and honor the victims of these institutions.
History of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The 30th of September is Orange Shirt Day, an initiative started by Phyllis Webstad. She and other survivors of residential schools attending St. Joseph's Mission in Williams Lake are the inspiration for Orange Shirt Day. It's a day to reflect on the residential school system's impact and honor the survivors and their families who have gone through the healing process.
The annual Orange Shirt Day has grown into a significant platform for addressing issues of racism and bullying. This day is also intended to spark serious introspection, education, and open discussion about the state of relations across Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
The Senate unanimously approved a bill in June 2021 that would establish an official holiday in Canada to remember the victims of residential schools.
Federal government employees and industries subject to federal regulation would be entitled to a new holiday under the legislation.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Indigenous leaders have called for a national day of remembrance to honor the survivors, their families, and their communities. Canadian Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault says the goal is to provide Canadians with this opportunity to learn.
About 150,000 Indigenous children were taken from their families and placed in residential schools sponsored by the church, where many were subjected to horrific levels of cruelty, neglect, and exploitation over more than a century. It is estimated that around four thousand people perished.
How Canadians Celebrate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
Wearing Orange
On the 30th of September, not only is it Orange Shirt Day, but it is also the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
An Indigenous-led grassroots remembrance day, Orange Shirt Day promotes the idea that "Every Child Matters" by drawing attention to the generational effects of residential schools on children and their families. The orange shirt represents the generations-long assault on Indigenous children's identity, independence, and culture.
All Canadians are encouraged to wear orange on September 30 to recognize the thousands of people who survived residential schools.
Holding a moment of silence
Canadians take a minute to reflect on the past and recognize the pain and suffering endured by Indigenous peoples.