Honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Meaningful Ways to Take Part in Orange Shirt Day

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed every year on September 30th, is a day dedicated to acknowledging the painful legacy of residential schools in Canada and honoring the survivors, their families, and communities. This day holds profound significance in the country's journey toward understanding its history and working toward healing, justice, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

But why is it called National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada? What does it mean to celebrate and honor this day? Let’s take a deep dive into its origins, significance, and how individuals can participate meaningfully.

Why Is This Day Called The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada?

The day is known as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation because it was established to promote the truth about Canada's historical treatment of Indigenous peoples, particularly through the residential school system, and to create a pathway toward reconciliation.

In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada released a comprehensive report that shed light on the devastating impact of residential schools. These institutions, operated by the Canadian government and churches from the 19th century to the late 20th century, aimed to assimilate Indigenous children into European-based culture, often through harsh, abusive methods. Many children were forcibly removed from their families and subjected to neglect, emotional and physical abuse, and, tragically, death.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established as part of the government’s commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action, specifically in honoring the survivors and fostering awareness about the ongoing effects of colonization and systemic racism.

What Does Truth and Reconciliation Mean?

The phrase truth and reconciliation is often used in post-conflict societies or in the context of historical injustices. In Canada, it has two central components:

1. Truth: This refers to acknowledging the full, unvarnished truth about the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada, particularly regarding residential schools. The process of truth-telling allows survivors to share their experiences, ensuring that future generations understand the trauma caused by the policies of forced assimilation. It also involves recognizing the systemic oppression and cultural genocide that Indigenous peoples endured.
   

2. Reconciliation: This involves the efforts made toward healing and rebuilding relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. Reconciliation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires commitment from individuals, communities, and governments. It means creating a space for Indigenous voices and perspectives, addressing past wrongs, and actively working to rectify the disparities in healthcare, education, housing, and overall quality of life that Indigenous peoples continue to face.
   

In short, truth and reconciliation means understanding the past fully, accepting responsibility for it, and taking actionable steps toward creating a more equitable and respectful society for Indigenous peoples.

How to Celebrate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

While National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not a statutory holiday in every province or territory, it is increasingly being recognized as a day of reflection, education, and action. It’s a time for Canadians to come together to honor the survivors and those who did not return from residential schools. Here are several meaningful ways to celebrate and commemorate the day:

1. Learn and Educate Others

One of the most impactful ways to honor National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is by learning about the history and current realities of Indigenous peoples in Canada. The TRC’s final report, available online, offers extensive resources about the history of residential schools. Additionally, many Indigenous-led organizations offer online courses that explore topics like colonialism, Indigenous culture, and the impact of residential schools. You can even schedule an engaging, inspiring seminar for your workplace.

You can also read books by Indigenous authors, listen to podcasts, or watch documentaries. Some notable books include “The Inconvenient Indian” by Thomas King and “21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act” by Bob Joseph.

Sharing what you’ve learned with others can help spread awareness and encourage more people to participate in the healing process.

2. Wear Orange

Orange Shirt Day, which coincides with National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, is a visual show of solidarity. Wearing an orange shirt honors the life of Phyllis Webstad, a survivor of the residential school system who had her new orange shirt taken away when she was enrolled in a residential school. The color symbolizes the loss of childhood, innocence, and cultural identity endured by many Indigenous children in these institutions.

Purchasing and wearing an orange shirt is a simple but powerful way to raise awareness and show support for survivors.

3. Attend or Host Ceremonies and Events

Many communities across Canada hold memorials, events, and ceremonies to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. These can include vigils, prayer ceremonies, dances, and public speeches. Indigenous organizations, such as the Assembly of First Nations or local band councils, often organize events that are open to the public.

If you are unable to attend an event in person, consider hosting a small event in your community, whether it's a gathering to watch a documentary, a reading of survivor testimonies, or a moment of silence to honor the children who never returned home.

4. Support Indigenous Businesses and Artists

An excellent way to celebrate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is by directly supporting Indigenous communities. This can be through purchasing goods from Indigenous-owned businesses, visiting local Indigenous art galleries, or attending performances and cultural showcases. This helps elevate Indigenous voices and promotes economic empowerment.

5. Donate to Indigenous Charities and Initiatives

Donating to Indigenous-led organizations that focus on education, health, mental health, and culture can make a tangible difference in the lives of Indigenous peoples. Consider supporting organizations like the Native Women's Association of Canada, Indspire, or the Indigenous Foundation to help create a positive impact on future generations.

How to Honor National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Honoring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation goes beyond simple celebration. It’s about taking meaningful steps to recognize and address the ongoing legacy of colonization in Canada. Here are several ways to do so:

1. Acknowledge the Land

Acknowledging the land on which you live is an important part of the reconciliation process. Whether you're at a public event or with friends and family, take a moment to acknowledge that the land is Indigenous territory. You can use land acknowledgments as a first step in recognizing Indigenous peoples' rights and sovereignty.

2. Engage in Community Action

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is also a reminder that the work of reconciliation is far from over. Engage with local initiatives, whether it's working with Indigenous communities on environmental issues, promoting educational equity, or advocating for the protection of Indigenous rights.

3. Listen to Indigenous Voices

Listen, learn, and respect Indigenous voices and leadership. Whether it's through interviews, art, music, or activism, giving space for Indigenous peoples to speak is essential to the process of healing and reconciliation.

4. Promote Indigenous Rights

Taking a stand for Indigenous rights on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an important way to honor this day. Advocate for the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and support initiatives that seek to dismantle systemic discrimination and inequality.

A Day of Reflection, Action, and Healing

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not just a day to look back on Canada’s dark history, but a call to action for a more equitable future. It reminds us that healing and reconciliation are ongoing processes that require continued effort, understanding, and commitment from everyone.

By educating ourselves, listening to Indigenous voices, and supporting Indigenous communities, we can honor the spirits of those who suffered and worked toward a future where all Canadians live in harmony and mutual respect.