National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
About This Holiday
A day to honor survivors and remember the children who died in residential schools.
History
This newest federal statutory holiday was established in 2021 in response to Call to Action #80 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. September 30 was chosen as it coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which began in 2013 to honor residential school survivors. The day recognizes the tragic legacy of Indian Residential Schools and their impact on Indigenous communities.
Traditions
Canadians are encouraged to wear orange shirts to honor survivors and remember children who died in residential schools. Many attend ceremonies, educational events, and vigils. Indigenous communities hold memorials and cultural events. It's a day for reflection, learning about Indigenous history, and committing to reconciliation.
Fun Facts
- ✨This is Canada's newest federal statutory holiday, established in 2021
- ✨Orange Shirt Day is based on Phyllis Webstad's story of having her orange shirt taken away on her first day of residential school
- ✨The day is a federal statutory holiday but not yet statutory in all provinces
- ✨Over 150,000 Indigenous children attended residential schools between the 1870s and 1990s