National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

September 30 marks both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established by the Government of Canada in 2021 in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The day honours Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, and remembers the children who never returned home. It also provides an opportunity to learn about and reflect on the history, legacy and ongoing impacts of the residential school system.

Orange Shirt Day began in 2013 and was inspired by the experience of Survivor Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her when she arrived at residential school as a child. Today, the orange shirt is a symbol of the impacts of residential schools and the enduring message that Every Child Matters.

Orange tshirts

Grand Erie Connections

Students and staff across Grand Erie are encouraged to wear orange as schools engage in learning and reflection about the history and legacy of residential schools and their ongoing impacts on Indigenous Peoples.

Together, we honour Survivors, remember those who never came home, and commit to reconciliation through education and understanding.