Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities.
Public commemoration of this tragic and painful history—and the ongoing impacts of residential schools—is a vital part of the reconciliation process. This federal statutory holiday was established through legislative amendments made by Parliament.
Orange Shirt Day
Both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30.
Orange Shirt Day, led by Indigenous communities, raises awareness of the intergenerational impacts of residential schools on children, families, and communities. It is a time to honour Indigenous children who were lost in the residential school system and to stand in solidarity with Survivors.
The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by many Indigenous children. It is also a reminder that Every Child Matters.
How to Participate
On September 30, CUPE Local 998 encourages all members and Canadians to:
- Wear orange to honour Survivors and remember the children who never came home.
- Consider a beaded orange shirt necklace as a powerful symbol of remembrance and resilience.
- Share your reflections and how you mark this day on social media using the hashtag #NDTR.
- Download and use educational resources to help spread awareness and continue learning about the impacts of residential schools.
- Events in Manitoba
Together, let us commit to truth, healing, and reconciliation.