NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

Truth and Reconciliation Day, observed annually on September 30, is dedicated to recognizing and addressing the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada. The day is a result of years of advocacy and calls for justice. This day stands as a vital step in the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.

OSSTF/FEESO is committed to reconciliation and ensuring that the tragic history and ongoing legacy of Indian Residential Schools are never forgotten. Reconciliation requires an ongoing commitment throughout the year; however, on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (also known as Orange Shirt Day) and Truth and Reconciliation Week, we make time to specifically honour the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities.

Members are encouraged to participate and support the following events:

  • National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Tuesday, September 30, 2025

  • Truth and Reconciliation Week – “Taking Truth to Action” September 22-26, 2025

In addition to honouring survivors, the pursuit of Truth and Reconciliation should occur regularly, year-round, should be meaningful with the spirit of ReconciliACTION. It is crucial to remember that dates like the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation are meant to be solemn times to learn and reflect on what we can all do to eliminate structural and overt racism, as well as other forms of discrimination, in our schools, worksites, and communities. It is about acknowledging the truth in our collective history and the ongoing inequities faced by Indigenous peoples across this land. The day is also about hope for the future and how Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples can work together to create a better future for all.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

OSSTF/FEESO Members are encouraged to acknowledge this day in your school, worksite, or local community.

Members can participate virtually by sharing images and messages on social media that demonstrate their support for this day using the hashtags - #NDTR, #OrangeShirtDay, #EveryChildMatters, #ResidentialSchools, #OSSTF, and #FEESO.

Many First Nations and non-profit organizations produce Orange Shirt Day promotional materials. Local leaders are encouraged to support groups/distributors that directly support Intergenerational survivors suffering from the impacts of the Residential School system. For example, the Woodland Cultural Centre partners with The Healing of Seven Generations organization based in Kitchener, Ontario to produce and sell Orange Shirt Day merchandise. To purchase your orange shirt from The Healing of Seven Generations, visit their site.

This year marks the 5th National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The Government of Canada established the day as an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to learn and reflect on the legacy of residential schools. It is also a day to support actions aimed at addressing the ongoing discrimination, oppression, and racism against First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.

To learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, visit the Government of Canada site. 

Caution re: Exploring/discussing Truth and Reconciliation with Colleagues and Students

Any time teachers and education workers learn and educate themselves or others about the history of residential schools and try to implement the TRC’s calls to action, they need to be mindful of the pain and trauma caused by oppression, discrimination, violence, and racism, past and present, against Indigenous peoples.

Days like the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation can be extremely difficult for Indigenous students, colleagues, families, and communities. Some may choose to be with their family or community during these days.

Many Indigenous students and colleagues use these times for healing and as times to take collective action to pressure policymakers to not only address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action but also grant justice to the missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two spirited peoples.

OSSTF/FEESO members should seek advice and support from their employer prior to initiating, organizing, or participating in any truth and reconciliation-related activity, event, or lesson.

Additional Resources and Lessons:

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