National Day for Truth and Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day

On September 30th we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Commemorating that tragic and painful history is an essential part of reconciliation.

Establishing this day of reflection was one of the calls to action the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada made nearly seven years ago. Nova Scotia first designated this holiday in 2021.

The intention of the day is for us to learn about the legacy of the residential schools and reflect on our own personal role in reconciliation. It is also an opportunity to consider our country’s policies and approaches to serving Indigenous persons in Canada that may still adversely affect them. 

September 30th also marks Orange Shirt Day. We wear orange to recognize and raise awareness about the history and impacts of the residential school system and show that Every Child Matters.

As we enter into Mi’kmaq History Month in October, reflecting on the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission can help us channel our best intentions into meaningful and important change.

The preceding is a statement from Joseph Fraser, Director & CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.