September 25 2024

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was created to recognize the harm inflicted by Canada’s residential school system on Indigenous people. The violence and inequalities created or worsened by the residential school system exist to the present day.

Orange Shirt Day was born from the First Nations led St. Joseph Mission Residential School Commemoration Project and Reunion events. It’s a day to discuss the effects and legacy of the residential school system. It’s also a day to reaffirm that Every Child Matters—including the adult survivors of the residential school system, their families, and their community members.

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) mourns for the children who never came home from residential schools and the devastating effect their unjust deaths had on their families and communities. NUPGE also acknowledges the intergenerational trauma inflicted by the residential school system and colonization and recommits itself to the principles of truth and reconciliation.

Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission reports, including the Calls to Action.

Learn more about the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s Memorial Registrar.

Learn more about why the colour orange was chosen for Orange Shirt Day.

Learn more about why September 30 was chosen as the date for Orange Shirt Day.