September 30th, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, is a time to learn, reflect, and deepen our understanding of the history and ongoing impacts of the residential school system.

It is a day to remember the experiences of Indigenous children, families, and communities affected by residential schools; honour the strength and resilience of Survivors; and recognize the lasting effects of intergenerational trauma on Indigenous Peoples and communities.

This day calls on each of us to listen, learn, and take meaningful action to support the ongoing journey toward truth and reconciliation. -VPL

In the Community

September 8-30, 2026

National Day National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Burnaby Truth and Reconciliation Burnaby
The City of Burnaby is presenting several programs and activities through September in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

September 27, 2026

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Maple Ridge

September 5-30, 2026

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Surrey
There are several opportunities to recognize this day in Surrey, ranging from personal learning to joining a community-led event.

September 30, 2026

Truth and Reconciliation Free Film Screening Trout Lake Community Centre (Vancouver)

Truth & Reconciliation Day at MONOVA (North Vancouver)

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Place des Arts (Coquitlam)

Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) (Abbotsford)

Films For Truth And Reconciliation (North Vancouver)

Online

Take Part in Truth and Reconciliation Week 2026
September 21-25, 2026 | National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation | Virtual

Join the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation for meaningful learning and action on the path toward reconciliation through daily Lunch & Learn webinars, free curriculum resources for Grades 1–12, and national events.

Webinar for Truth & Reconciliation
September 24, 2026 - 10:00 am | Moose Hide Campaign | Virtual

Join the Moose Hide Campaign for a panel discussion exploring our collective journey of Truth and Reconciliation in Canada, featuring bestselling author and journalist Waubgeshig Rice of Wasauksing First Nation, whose work explores contemporary Anishinaabe life, culture, community and storytelling.

Learning resources

Discover the origins of Orange Shirt Day through founder Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s personal story
Get educated on the legacy and impacts of Canada’s residential school system through The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
Learn about the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action further strengthened by the university’s commitment and support of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Reading lists

VPL - Indigenous Autobiographies and Memoirs:

VPL - Orange Shirt Day

UBC REDI’s Reading list for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:

Mental Health and Wellness Supports for indigenous People

Former residential school students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.
Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.
Indian Residential Schools Society (BC Based) . Lamathut 24/7 Crisis Line. IRSSS operates a 24-hour crisis line to provide urgent emotional support for Survivors, families, and Indigenous communities across British Columbia and beyond. 1-800-721-0066
First Nations Health Authority. The FNHA plans, designs, manages and funds the delivery of First Nations health programs across BC.