As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, we would like to extend a sincere thank you to the EIDA-R Dates of Significance Ad Hoc Group for their invaluable expertise and thoughtful guidance in shaping how we collectively observe this important day.
Each year on the federally recognized National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we reflect and honour Survivors, their families, and communities affected by the legacy of Indian Residential Schools.
September 30, 2021, marked the first observance of a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, following the identification of potential unmarked burial sites at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia.
September 30 is also recognized as Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Residential School survivor, Phyllis Webstad. Phyllis was six years old when she wore her new orange shirt for her first day at residential school. Her shirt was immediately taken from her by school staff.
Commemorating this day to honour Survivors and increase understanding of the history and legacy of Residential Schools is one step in a long journey towards truth-telling and meaningful reconciliation.
Updated Land Acknowledgement Resource
In the spirit of ongoing learning and respect, the HPA-OHT has reviewed and updated its Land Acknowledgement to better reflect the histories, voices, and sovereignty of the Indigenous Nations whose territories we live and work on. This process included the addition of an Action-Oriented Land Acknowledgement How-To Resource, with subsequent consultation with local Indigenous leaders to ensure our words are not only accurate but also meaningful and rooted in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.
Purchase an Every Child Matters Orange Shirt
Orange Shirt Day is a time to honour the survivors of residential schools and remember the children who never returned home. Purchase an orange shirt and wear it on September 30 to show solidarity and spark conversations. It’s a simple but powerful gesture that says Every Child Matters. Visit our website in the “Next Steps” section below where local Indigenous vendors will be highlighted for shirt purchases.
Proceeds from the orange shirt purchases support various Indigenous communities and initiatives.
Howling Moon Aboriginal Catering, Stratford
- Order by email: howlingmoon2021@gmail.com
- Local pick up available
- Sizes available: Youth-Adult 3XL
Gallery Indigena, 69 Ontario Street, Stratford
- Order by phone: 519-271-7881
- Local pick up or shipping available
- Sizes available: Children Y2-Adult 3XL
Not local? Purchase through the Turtle Lodge Trading Post
Local & Provincial National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Events
Local & Provincial National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Events
Learn more about and attend local and virtual events in September that honour survivors and deepen understanding of the Residential School system and its legacy as well as traditional Indigenous teachings.
Click on each of the events in the calendar to learn more.
Events in teal depict events in Huron Perth and Area
Events in green depict Ontario-based and virtual programming
In addition to these events, we also encourage you throughout this month to donate to a fund that supports Indigenous rights, programs, and services.