York-Simcoe Observes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Ontario recognizes September 30^th as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day to honour Survivors of Indian Residential Schools, and remember the children who did not make it home.

Orange Shirt Day was inspired by Indian Residential School Survivor Phyllis Webstad, who bravely shared her experience of attending St. Joseph Mission Residential School in British Columbia.

In 2021, the federal government designated September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a direct response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action  #80, which called for a federal statutory holiday to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure public commemoration of the history and legacy of the Indian Residential School system.

This year, Ontario is marking the third observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day by encouraging the public and all Ontario public servants to learn about, and reflect on, the legacy and ongoing impacts of the Indian Residential School system.

In the spirit of reconciliation, please visit Ontario.ca/LearntheLegacy to learn about the history of Indian Residential Schools and consider participating in local events in our community and around the province.