Every Child Matters: Remembering, Reflecting and Recommitting

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. This day honours the children who never returned home and the Survivors of residential schools, along with their families and communities. It is a time to reflect on the tragic and painful history of the residential school system and the lasting impacts it continues to have across generations. Public commemoration is a vital part of the reconciliation process, reminding all Canadians of the need to learn, listen and act.

The discovery of unmarked graves and the stories of Survivors have led to growing calls for accountability and systemic change. In 2013, the not-for-profit Orange Shirt Society first honoured this day, inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at residential school. The orange shirt has since become a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children.

September is the time of year when children were taken from their homes to attend residential schools. This date of significance offers all Canadians an opportunity to engage in meaningful reflection and commit to anti-racism and reconciliation in their schools, workplaces and communities.

At Grandview Kids, truth and reconciliation are honoured monthly. Each all-staff meeting begins with a “Reconcili-Action Moment,” where a member of the Inclusion Diversity Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee shares a story or reflection to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples and inspire continued learning and action.

Let this day serve as a reminder that reconciliation is not a one-day event but an ongoing journey we all must take together.

Ways to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

• Learn more about Orange Shirt Day
• Visit the Assembly of First Nations
• Learn more on the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami or Métis National Council
• Find your local Friendship Centre

Use Free Government of Canada Visuals and Assets:

• Social media banner
• Facebook profile picture frame
• Virtual meeting background (orange background)
• Virtual meeting background (white background)

Support Resources:

Former residential school students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.

Indigenous Peoples across Canada can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line for counselling and crisis intervention 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat (Please use Google Chrome).