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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day for all Canadians to pause, recognize and learn from the history and ongoing impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples in Canada.
The day honours the children who never returned home, and the resilience, dignity and strength of Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public recognition of the history and the ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the “Truth” portion of Truth and Reconciliation. As Canadians begin to understand more about residential schools and other aspects of colonial Canadian history affecting Indigenous peoples, governments, other organizations and individuals can commit to the process of Reconciliation through partnerships and the support of Indigenous-led initiatives.
To learn more about Coquitlam’ commitment to Reconciliation, visit coquitlam.ca/reconciliation.
Wear Orange
Before it was nationally designated in 2021, September 30 was an Indigenous-led, grassroots initiative, from Williams Lake, BC, known as Orange Shirt Day. The story behind Orange Shirt Day originates from Phyllis Webstad, whose new orange shirt, a gift from her grandmother, was taken away from her when she entered residential school at the age of six. The last residential school in BC closed in 1983; the last residential school in Canada closed in 1996. Wearing orange throughout September, and especially on September 30, honours both the Survivors and those who didn’t make it home.
About the Survivors’ Flag
The Survivors’ flag was created by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) in partnership with Survivors from across Canada (including Inuit, Mi’kmaq, Atikamekw, Cree, Ojibway, Dakota, Mohawk, Dene, Nuu-chah-nulth, Secwepemc, and Métis peoples). It was conceived in 2021 following confirmation of mass unmarked graves found on the grounds of former residential schools. The Survivors’ flag is a salient and accessible symbol to honour the lives of those impacted by the residential school system. Each element depicted on the flag was carefully selected through consultation, discussion and collaboration with Survivors of residential schools. The NCTR website provides more information about the Survivors’ Flag, including Survivors’ perspectives on the significance of the Flag.
Local Truth and Reconciliation Day Events and Learning Opportunities
Coquitlam recognizes that the path to reconciliation is unique for each individual, and the City is committed to supporting the community by highlighting diverse opportunities for learning, reflection, and engagement. The following local events and resources provide a chance to explore the ongoing impacts of the residential school system, honour Indigenous voices, and participate in activities that foster understanding and respect.