On September 30, Canada will observe its first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day will honour the lost children and survivors of the residential school system in Canada, their families and their communities. It is a public commemoration of a tragic and painful history and of the ongoing impacts of residential schools, it is a vital component of the reconciliation process and importantly a day for personal reflection.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed concurrently with Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day which recognizes, raises awareness, and encourages meaningful discussion around the history and legacy of the residential school system in Canada.

On Thursday, September 30, join us to recognize and honour all of those who suffered – and those who still suffer – the ravages of the residential school system by wearing orange, by participating in Orange Day and Truth and Reconciliation Day events, by reflecting on the ongoing impact and legacy of the residential schools, and by learning more about the experiences and histories of the First Nations, Inuit, and Metis Peoples of Canada.

Additional Resources:

• Government of Canada
  • National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
  • Indigenous arts, culture, and heritage – begin your learning journey
  • Delivering on Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action
• BCCIE Internationalization and Indigenization: Tension and Collaboration Dialogues
  • Dialogues on Decolonization for International Education: Part One
  • Dialogues on Decolonization for International Education: Part Two
  • Dialogues on Decolonization for International Education: Part Three
• BCCIE Intercultural Dialogue Series
  • Internationalization and Indigenization: Tensions and Collaborations
  • Reflective Practices Through Dialogue Series Form (PDF)