Tuesday September 30th is National Truth and Reconciliation Day

September 9, 2025

OUR OFFICES ARE CLOSED TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 30TH

AND WILL REOPEN AT 08:30 A.M. WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 1ST.

 

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, originally and still colloquially known as Orange Shirt Day, is a Canadian day of memorial to recognize the atrocities and multi-generational effects of the Canadian Indian residential school system. It occurs every year on September 30.

 

The Meaning Behind Orange Shirt Day

The orange shirt is a symbol of the loss and injustices faced by Indigenous children in residential schools. It also represents the commitment to ensure that every child matters.

The inspiration for Orange Shirt Day comes from Phyllis Webstad’s story. When she was six years old, Phyllis’s grandmother bought her a bright orange shirt for her first day of school. However, when she arrived at the residential school, her shirt was taken away from her, along with her dignity and identity.

Her story symbolizes the deep and lasting impacts of the residential school system and serves as a reminder of the resilience of survivors.