September 30th

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, to be held annually on September 30, is to honour survivors, their families and communities, and ensure a public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools.

This day coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which carries a very important message: that every child matters.

Alberta’s government is committed to working with Indigenous people on truth and reconciliation. We must stand with First Nations, Métis and Inuit teachers, students and communities to honour those who survived and those who did not return home.

We must never forget that residential schools did not allow students to speak their languages or practice their cultures; that some students were emotionally, physically and sexually abused; and that these atrocities affect Indigenous people, families and communities to this day.

Acts of reconciliation advance the recognition of the painful legacy of residential schools. These acts can help Albertans’ understanding of reconciliation-related initiatives that offer a better future for Indigenous peoples.

Truth and Reconciliation Week

TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION WEEK 2022 is a national program open to all schools across Canada.

This year, our theme is “Remembering the Children”. Join us as we memorialize the children lost to the residential school system and honour Survivors and their families. Learning and commemorating the truth of our history from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit knowledge keepers is an important part of the path to Reconciliation.

This year includes an expanded program with age-appropriate material for students in grades 1 through 12.

Days 1 to 3 feature pre-recorded videos and a live Q & A session. On September 30, students will be able to view a live televised broadcast for Orange Shirt Day from their homes. 

All sessions will be held virtually on Hubilo. Registration is required to stream live and pre-recorded sessions and to participate in the Q & A segment.

Day 4 features an in-person gathering which will stream live for all those who are unable to attend.

Information and Registration

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) unveiled a new Survivors’ Flag to mark the first official National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

This commemorative flag was created by survivors to share their expression of remembrance with the broader public, and to honour all residential school survivors, families, and communities impacted by the residential school system in Canada. More ...