National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?

In June 2021, the federal government legislated September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day is an opportunity to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, as proposed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada in 2015. Under Action 80, the Commission called upon the federal government, in collaboration with Indigenous peoples, to establish a statutory holiday that honours Survivors, their families and communities, and to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.

What is Orange Shirt Day?

Orange Shirt Day is a day to honour Indigenous children who were sent away to residential schools in Canada. Orange Shirt Day challenges Canadians to witness and honour the stories of Survivors and their families, and to commit to meaningful discussion and the ongoing process of reconciliation.

Activities to Honour Orange Shirt Day

Observance of Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Members of the Nipissing University community are encouraged to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation through personal reflection, education and participation in events such as Orange Shirt Day.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Commemorative Guide

View the CCDI's commemorative guide

CCDI Webinars on Truth and Reconciliation

• Part one, previously recorded: Ten Years of Truth, a Lifetime of Action: Part One
• New CCDI webinar: The Evolving Landscape of Truth and Reconciliation — live panel on Sept. 17 at 1:00 p.m. Part two.

Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) – Resources

• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation / Orange Shirt Day - Educational Resources
• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - Guided Learning Journey 2025
• CCDI Webinar: Reconciliation: Sisters on the path
• CCDI Webinar: Moving from reconciliation to reconciliACTION: Engaging and supporting Indigenous communities

Other Ways to Honour the Day

• View relevant materials and resources on display at the Learning Library or via the Library's online Indigenous Resources guide
• Visit the online resources listed on this page to learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
• Read about the origins of Orange Shirt Day and share this information with your family and friends
• View one of acclaimed director Alanis Obomsawin's documentary films at the National Film Board
• Wear orange as part of your commitment to reconciliation
• Reflect

Other Suggested Resources

• United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
• 21 Things You May Not Have Known About The Indian Act
• Murray Sinclair delivers statement on discovery at Kamloops residential school
• Read Universities Canada's 2020 report, Empowering Indigenous students and advancing reconciliation

Learn more about Indigenous Inclusion

• Guide to respectful and inclusive recruitment of Indigenous talent
• Indigenous Inclusion Language
• Land Acknowledgement Guidelines

Honoring National Truth and Reconciliation Day Through Student Creativity

We are proud to share creative works by the students of Dr. Cindy Peltier, created in recognition of National Truth and Reconciliation Day. These poems and digital art pieces reflect their reflections, learning, and voices during this important time. View their work here.