September 30 marks the official Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to recognize and reflect on the legacy of residential schools in Canada. As of 2023, this special day is also a statutory holiday for workers in British Columbia.
September 30 has been set aside to honor the children who never returned home, along with survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities who were adversely affected by this tragic and painful history. The date, originally known as Orange Shirt Day, was established by Indigenous efforts as a commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the impacts of residential schools over the years, and the concept that “Every Child Matters.” The idea of wearing of an orange shirt, originated from the story of how Phyllis Webstad had worn an orange shirt to school that her grandmother had given her; the shirt was taken from Webstad on her first day at a residential school. Today, the orange shirt is meant to symbolize the stripping away of culture and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.
As a day of reflection, various programs will take place at communities across the country and government buildings will be illuminated in orange. Parliament Hill will broadcast a national commemorative gathering on September 30, 2023; check for local listings. Everyone is encouraged to wear an orange shirt on this special day of commemoration.
There were 140 federally run residential schools in Canada that operated between 1867 and 1996. Some 150,000 Indigenous children were removed and separated from their families and communities to attend residential schools. Survivors advocated for recognition and reparations, which culminated in a Settlement Agreement and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. To learn more, go to the Government of Canada website.
