As we approach Monday, September 30th—Truth and Reconciliation Day—it’s important to recognize that this is not simply a day off or a holiday. It’s a day for deep reflection, learning, and a commitment to reconciliation. Marking this day, officially known as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, provides an opportunity for all of us to confront the ongoing legacy of colonialism, the history of residential schools, and the trauma experienced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
The Meaning of TRC Day
Truth and Reconciliation Day, also known as Orange Shirt Day, was established in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, particularly Call to Action 80. This call urges the federal government to create a statutory holiday to honour survivors, families, and communities impacted by residential schools. The wearing of orange shirts on this day stems from the story of Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor whose orange shirt was taken away on her first day of school—symbolizing the stripping of identity and culture from Indigenous children. Orange Shirt Day reminds us that Every Child Matters.
It’s a time to remember the children who never made it home and the resilience of those who did. This day encourages us to engage with the history and current realities of Indigenous Peoples and their experiences with Canada’s colonial system.
At the heart of reconciliation is the truth: a painful, but essential truth. It’s about acknowledging that Indigenous Peoples continue to face systemic racism, cultural erasure, and the generational trauma caused by residential schools. Truth and Reconciliation Day is an opportunity to honour these truths and take responsibility for our role in ensuring that these stories are never forgotten.
More Than a Day Off
It’s important to emphasize that this day is not a holiday in the typical sense. It is a day for action—for listening, learning, and reflecting. It is not a time for rest and relaxation but an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the harm caused to Indigenous Peoples and the steps we need to take toward healing.
For non-Indigenous people, reconciliation starts with educating ourselves and understanding the truth. Take the time to read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, learn about the local Indigenous Nations whose land you live on, and explore ways you can contribute to breaking down colonial systems in your everyday life.
How Can We Participate?
- Listen: Seek out Indigenous voices—read books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts by Indigenous creators. Pay attention to their lived experiences, histories, and visions for a future built on reconciliation and respect.
- Learn: Take the time to educate yourself on the history of residential schools, Indigenous rights, and the ongoing challenges Indigenous communities face today. Learn about treaties, cultural practices, and Indigenous contributions to our society.
- Reflect: Ask yourself what reconciliation means in your own life. How can you help create space for healing and acknowledgment? Consider how colonialism has shaped our institutions and the privileges many of us unknowingly carry. Reflection is the first step toward meaningful change.
- Act: Reconciliation is not a passive process. It requires ongoing efforts and tangible actions. Advocate for Indigenous rights, support Indigenous-led organizations, and actively work toward dismantling the colonial structures that persist in our society.
Reconciliation Is a Journey
While Truth and Reconciliation Day is an important marker, it’s essential to remember that reconciliation is not a one-day event. It’s a lifelong journey that requires continuous learning, unlearning, and engagement. As we observe this day, let us do so with a commitment to listening, learning, reflecting, and ultimately, reconciling.
Let this Monday serve as a reminder that we all have a role to play in building a future where Indigenous Peoples are celebrated, respected, and empowered and the full truth of Canada’s history is acknowledged and honoured.
Reconciliation is about creating a path forward—one that ensures Indigenous Peoples’ voices, rights, and futures are fully realized.
Events to Attend Around Calgary
Check out this list of events put together by the Calgary Chamber.
- September 28 | All My Relations Healing Powwow | 1:00PM – 6:00PM | BMO Centre | More info
- September 29 | Film Screening of Bones and Crows | 6:30 – 9:00PM | Calgary Public Library | More info
- September 29 | National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | 9:30AM – 5:30PM | Heritage Park | More info
- September 30 | Speak Up! Exhibit | 10:00AM – 5:00PM | Studio Bell | More info
- September 30 | Every Child Matters Powwow | 1:00PM – 6:00PM | Bob Bahan Soccer Field | More info
- September 30 | Orange Shirt Day | 9:00 – 10:30AM | Confluence Historic Site & Parkland | More info
- September 30 | Pokaiks Commemorative Walk | 10:00AM | From the Peace Bridge to Contemporary Calgary | More info
- September 30 | A Conversation with Michelle Good, award-winning Author of “Five Little Indians” | 12:30 – 1:30PM | Calgary Public Library | More info
- September 30 | Art Gallery Tour and Artists Talk | 2:00 – 2:45PM; 4:00 – 4:45PM | Arts Commons | More info
- September 30 | Indigenous Makers Market | 12:00 – 5:30PM | Jack Singer Concert Hall Lobby | More info
- September 30 | Elders Story Project | 6:30PM | Arts Commons | More info
- September 30 | Elisapie | 7:30PM | National Music Center | More info
