Sept. 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 14, 2026
Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The day honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is an important part of reconciliation. On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Chilliwack School District recognizes our responsibility to students, staff, families, and communities - past, present, and future. Truth and Reconciliation is a priority in the school district's strategic plan.
Truth and Reconciliation Week: Sept. 21 to 25
Truth and Reconciliation Week 2026 includes five days of learning for students, educators, and communities to engage with the history and enduring spirit of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Join daily Lunch & Learns, witness “From Roots We Rise: A Youth Gathering”, engage in meaningful dialogues, and participate in a journey toward reconciliation. Learn more by visiting the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website.
Fifth Annual Orange Shirt Day Pow Wow
On October 2 and 3, 2026, the Indigenous Education department and Chilliwack Secondary School will host the 5th annual Orange Shirt Day Pow Wow. See flyer for more information.
Orange Shirt Day
Both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30.
Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”. The orange shirt is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.
Orange Shirt Day was inspired by Phyllis Webstad. Phyllis’s story spread across the country, leading to the creation of Orange Shirt Day. Listen as Phyllis Webstad tells her story.
More videos: CBC Kids' Orange Shirt Day Playlist.
Learning First Peoples Classroom Resources
The First Nations Education Steering Committee and the First Nations Schools Association, in collaboration with teachers and partners, have developed the following Learning First Peoples series of teacher resources to support English Language Arts, Science Social Studies and Mathematics courses. Visit the First Nations Education Steering Committee website for more information.
Mental Health Support
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.