National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

🎆 🇨🇦 Canada • September 30, 2026

Days off: 1 days • Falls on Wednesday

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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation — holiday, Canada (September 30, 2026)

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Description

Established in 2021 as Canada's newest federal statutory holiday, honoring the Indigenous children who perished at residential schools and the survivors who endured them. Observed on September 30th, also known as Orange Shirt Day, Canadians wear orange to raise awareness. Events include community walks, educational workshops, and ceremonies led by Indigenous elders. Federal employees and workers in federally regulated industries receive the day off; provincial observance varies across the country.

📜 History & Origins

This holiday was established in 2021 in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action #80, following the discovery of unmarked graves at former residential school sites. Orange Shirt Day originated in 2013 in Williams Lake, BC, inspired by Phyllis Webstad's story of having her orange shirt taken on her first day at residential school.

🎉 How It's Celebrated

Canadians wear orange shirts as a symbol of solidarity with residential school survivors. Communities hold sunrise ceremonies, sharing circles, and moments of silence. Schools and organizations host educational workshops on Indigenous history and the legacy of residential schools. Many attend public screenings of documentaries, listen to survivor testimonies, and participate in traditional smudging ceremonies.

🍽️ Traditional Foods

Community gatherings feature traditional Indigenous foods: bannock (fried bread), wild rice dishes, smoked salmon, and Three Sisters soup (corn, beans, and squash), reflecting First Nations, Métis, and Inuit culinary heritage.

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