National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
In June 2021, the federal government passed legislation to make September 30 a statutory holiday called the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Soon after, BC followed suit, recognizing it in the public sector.
This day provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn about and reflect on dark chapters in our country’s history and to commemorate residential school survivors, their families, and their communities—as called for by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Call to Action 80.
Since 2013, September 30 has been observed as Orange Shirt Day, a day that recognized the colonial legacy of residential schools. Orange Shirt Day recalls the experience of residential school Survivor Phyllis Webstad, who was stripped of her shiny new orange shirt on her first day attending residential school at six years old.
Here are some events and resources from our community to help you learn and reflect.
Image credit: Carved by Coast Salish artist Luke Marston, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bentwood Box is a lasting tribute to all Indian Residential School Survivors. The carved panels represent the unique cultures of former First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. Used with permission.
ON THE SHELF
Check these out the next time you’re in the Library.
Honouring Truth and Reconciliation
Honouring Truth and Reconciliation
on the web
These recommended websites are free and easily accessible! All you need is an internet connection.
Join us at the West Vancouver Memorial Library for a facilitated discussion of Sam George’s recent memoir The Fire Still Burns: Life In and After Residential School. September 17, 3:00-4:00pm.
Members of the UBC community, families and those in solidarity are welcome to participate. The march is intergenerational, and aims to be educational and supportive to the Indigenous community on campus and beyond. September 30, 11:00am-3:00pm.
Join us all day at MONOVA to engage and learn through hands-on activities designed to inspire reflection and meaningful dialogue for guests of all ages. September 30, 10:00am-5:00pm.
Reflect on our history. Connect to the land. September 30th will be a day of reflection, stories, learning, and contemplation at the SLCC. The day will be filled with programming throughout the Great Hall, Theatre, Galleries, and out on the Mezzanine patio.
Join Lisa Lewis, a Squamish Nations author, as she reads her book Tsunaxen’s Journey and teaches traditional Squamish songs and crafts. October 2, 11:00am-12:00pm.
Join us at West Vancouver Memorial Library for a facilitated discussion of Sam George’s recent memoir, The Fire Still Burns: Life In and After Residential School. For Grades 8-12. October 5, 3:45-4:45pm.
Join the North Shore Libraries for An Evening with Squamish Elder Sam George who will discuss his recent memoir The Fire Still Burns: Life In and After Residential School. September 27, 7:00-8:30pm.
A week of events hosted by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. September 25 – 30, 2023.
A guide from the Skwxwú7mesh Lilwat7úl Cultural Centre