Local Events for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to honour the Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, and to reflect on the enduring impacts of these institutions across Canada. It is a day to pause, listen, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of reconciliation, work that remains both urgent and essential.

This day is closely tied to Orange Shirt Day, which began in 2013 and was inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, a Survivor of the St. Joseph Mission Residential School in British Columbia. On her first day at the school, six-year-old Phyllis wore a bright orange shirt given to her by her grandmother. The shirt was taken from her and never returned. Today, the orange shirt is a powerful symbol of the loss of culture, identity, and dignity experienced by Indigenous children in residential schools—and a reminder that every child matters.

On September 24 at 11:30 am PST, ISL will host a webinar to give us all a chance to reflect together on our shared responsibilities on the path of reconciliation. While you will be able to participate virtually on Teams, each office will also hold an in-person gathering, which you are encouraged to attend. Please stay tuned for details from your office.

At ISL, we recognize that reconciliation is not confined to a single day of observance. It is a continuous responsibility that calls for awareness, action, and allyship. By participating in events within our communities, we show respect, deepen our understanding, and strengthen our shared commitment to truth, healing, and justice.

This year, we encourage all ISLers to engage in local gatherings and initiatives. Below, you’ll find details about events happening in your city and how you can take part. Please note that dates are still being announced, so this is not a complete list.

What: University of Lethbridge’s Truth and Reconciliation Week 2025
Where: University of Lethbridge, various locations
When: September 22 – 26, various times
More information can be found here.

What: Lethbridge Sport Council’s Give It a Try on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Where: Legacy Park
When: September 30, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
More information can be found here.

Langley

What: Reconciliation Langley’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Where: Derek Doubleday Arboretum
When: September 30, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
More information can be found here.

Additionally, a substantial list of events happening in and around Metro Vancouver can be found here.

e.

Where: Various locations
When: September 30, various times
More information can be found here.

Whitehorse

No events are posted yet for Whitehorse. Stay tuned to City of Whitehorse and Kwanlin Dün First Nation, both of whom have previously hosted events.

Saskatoon

What: Orange Shirt Day Run/Walk Saskatoon 2025
Where: Rotary Park, various events
When: September 30, times not yet posted.
More information can be found here.

What: Walking Together for Truth and Reconciliation Sharing Circle Gathering
Where: Army, Navy, and Air Force Veterans Hall
When: September 27, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
More information can be found here.

What: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Where: Wanuskewin Heritage Park
When: September 30, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm, various events.
More information can be found here.

What: Saskatoon Tribal Council and Cameco’s Powwow – Every Child Matters
Where: Sasktel Centre
When: September 28 – 30, various events.
More information can be found her

If you or someone you know requires support, help is available. The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line (1.866.925.4419) provides 24/7 support for Survivors and their families. The Hope for Wellness Help Line (1.855.242.3310 or online chat at hopeforwellness.ca) offers immediate, culturally grounded counselling for Indigenous peoples across Canada.