National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: 3 Meaningful Ways to Act on September 30

Because every child truly matters.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: 3 Meaningful Ways to Act on September 30

"What does it mean to wear orange on September 30th? For many, it’s a symbol of solidarity. But for Survivors of Residential Schools, it represents stolen childhoods, broken families, and resilience in the face of unimaginable harm. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is more than a day off — it’s a day on. A day to listen, learn, and live differently."

Over 150,000 Indigenous children were taken from their families and placed in Residential Schools across Canada. Many never came home. For those who did, the impacts of trauma, abuse, and cultural erasure still echo through generations.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in 2021 as a federal holiday in direct response to Call to Action #80 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Its purpose is to honour Survivors of Residential Schools, their families, and communities, while ensuring this history is never forgotten.

This day also coincides with Orange Shirt Day, inspired by Survivor Phyllis Webstad’s story, and carries a powerful reminder: Every Child Matters.

This is not a holiday from history. It is a call to truth, remembrance, and action. Here’s how you can honour this day in ways that truly matter.

3 Meaningful Ways to Act on September 30

1. Commit to the Truth: Deepen Your Education

Reconciliation begins with knowing the truth. Understanding the history and ongoing impacts of Residential Schools is the foundation for meaningful change.

• Read the Calls to Action: Start with the TRC’s 94 Calls to Action, a roadmap for change at both personal and systemic levels.

• Learn Local History: Use tools like native-land.ca to identify the Indigenous territories where you live. Research which Residential Schools operated nearby and the stories of Survivors.

• Seek Indigenous Voices: Prioritize books, films, art, and podcasts created by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis knowledge-keepers. The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is an excellent place to begin.

Education isn’t passive — it’s an active step toward truth.

2. Witness and Listen: Attend an Indigenous-Led Event

While wearing an orange shirt shows solidarity, showing up carries even more weight. Community gatherings allow us to listen, learn, and bear witness.

• Find Events Near You: Look for walks, ceremonies, film screenings, or talks hosted by Indigenous organizations or First Nations communities.

• Be a Respectful Guest: Follow the lead of event organizers. Listen more than you speak, and remember you are entering a space of healing and remembrance.

• Wear Orange with Intention: Share the story of Phyllis Webstad and the meaning behind Every Child Matters when others ask why you wear orange.

Your presence is powerful. It shows Survivors and their families that you see, you hear, and you care.

3. Support Sustained Change: Beyond September 30

Reconciliation is not one day — it’s an ongoing commitment. What you choose to do after September 30 matters most.

• Support Indigenous-Owned Businesses: Direct your dollars toward First Nations, Inuit, and Métis entrepreneurs.

• Donate to Indigenous-Led Organizations: Consider groups like the Indian Residential School Survivor Society (IRSSS) or the Legacy of Hope Foundation.

• Advocate Where You Are: Encourage your workplace, school, or community organization to implement permanent Indigenous education programs and meaningful ways of observing this day annually.

Every choice we make can either uphold or dismantle the colonial legacy. Choose change.

A Shared Journey

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a moment to pause, reflect, and act — but it’s also a reminder that reconciliation is a shared journey. It requires honesty about the past, respect for Survivors, and daily commitment to a more just and compassionate future.

At Alternative Youth Services, we believe in supporting all families, youth, and communities in their healing journey. Whether it’s through mental health support, guidance for parents, or connecting people to resources, our work is rooted in compassion, inclusion, and the belief that everyone deserves care, dignity, and a path forward.

This September 30th, take a step beyond awareness. Choose one action that brings you closer to truth, to reconciliation, and to hope.

Because every child truly matters.