Honour Truth, Activate Reconciliation

Written By Shawnee Buffalo

September 30: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 

As the leaves change colours and the air grows crisp, we enter a season of reflection – a time to pause, listen, and carry truth forward. September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the Survivors of residential schools, remember the children who never came home, and stand in solidarity with Indigenous families and communities. 

It is a day that asks us not only to remember, but to understand – to seek the truth of our shared history and recognize the work that still lies ahead.

Also known as Orange Shirt Day, this day was inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at a residential school – an experience that symbolizes the broader theft of culture, identity, and childhood endured by generations of Indigenous children.

But this day is more than one of remembrance – it is a call to responsibility. It invites all people in so-called Canada to reflect on the ongoing impacts of colonialism and commit to meaningful, sustained action toward reconciliation.

Beyond Symbolism: The Call to Act 

On June 2, 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released 94 Calls to Action – an action plan for justice and healing for Indigenous peoples. These recommendations span areas such as education, child welfare, health, justice, and language revitalization.

Nearly a decade later, only 15 of the 94 Calls to Action have been fully completed. This slow progress reveals a troubling gap between symbolic gestures and true accountability. Reconciliation cannot be achieved through words alone – it demands systemic change, sustained effort, and collective will.

What This Day Asks of Us

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not just about wearing orange or attending events — it is about honouring and demanding those commitments. It asks us to reflect deeply on the past that brought us here and the responsibilities we carry today. As the land teaches us about cycles of change and renewal, we are reminded that truth must be acknowledged before reconciliation can begin.

How You Can Take Action

Each of us has a role to play in advancing reconciliation. Here are some ways you can show up meaningfully:

  • Wear orange to honour Survivors and raise awareness of the impact of residential schools.

  • Learn about the history and lasting impacts of residential schools in so-called Canada.

  • Read the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and choose at least one to act on in your life or community.

  • Attend local events or ceremonies that honour Survivors and remember the children who never came home.

  • Observe a moment of silence to reflect on lives lost and the intergenerational impacts still felt today.

LEARN MORE

Together, we can honour the resilience of Indigenous peoples and take meaningful steps toward healing – starting with truth, and carried forward through action.

Shawnee Buffalo
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