Reconciliation is not only the responsibility of governments and institutions, it requires the involvement of all Canadians. Here are some practical steps we can take, both on September 30th and throughout the year:
- Wear Orange with Intention
- Learn the History
- Support Indigenous Voices
- Reflect While Attending Local Events
- Commit Beyond the Day
Choose to wear an orange shirt on September 30th, but take time to reflect on its meaning. Talk to your children, friends, and colleagues about why you’re wearing it. Many Indigenous artists and organizations sell orange shirts; buying from them directly supports survivors and their communities.
Read or listen to survivor stories collected by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Explore resources such as the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) and the Orange Shirt Society. Understanding the truth is the foundation for reconciliation.
Seek out books, films, podcasts, and art by Indigenous creators. Amplify their voices in conversations and on social media. For families, children’s books like Phyllis’s Orange Shirt offer an accessible way to start discussions with young learners.
Across Canada, communities come together on September 30th with ceremonies, marches, educational talks, and cultural gatherings to honour survivors and remember the children who never came home. Attending these events is a powerful way to show solidarity, while also offering opportunities to learn directly from Indigenous leaders and survivors. To find local activities, visit your city’s official website, explore resources from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR), or check with local organizations and community centres hosting observances.
True reconciliation is year-round. Consider donating to organizations supporting Indigenous youth, education, or language revitalization. Engage with the NTRC’s Calls to Action and ask how you, your workplace, or your community can contribute.
Teaching the Next Generation
For parents, guardians, and educators, Orange Shirt Day offers an opportunity to talk with children about fairness, respect, and history. These conversations don’t need to be heavy or complex, just honest and age-appropriate. Emphasizing that every child deserves love, respect, and belonging helps children understand why the day matters and how they can grow into allies.
A Shared Responsibility
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is both a solemn reminder and a call to action. Remembering the children who never returned home is painful, but necessary. Honouring the resilience of survivors is inspiring, but it is only the beginning.
Reconciliation requires listening, learning, and sustained commitment from all of us. When we wear orange, attend a local event, or take time to educate ourselves, we are part of a broader movement that says: We will not look away. We will do better.
As Canadians, let’s carry the message of September 30th beyond a single day. Let’s make reconciliation an ongoing commitment, because every child truly does matter.
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