09/29/2026
September 30 is Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We will be closed to honour this day.
For families with young children, this can be a day to begin, or continue, simple conversations about belonging, kindness, family and why Every Child Matters.
Orange Shirt Day grew from the story of residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her when she arrived at residential school as a child. September 30 is a time to honour Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and recognize the ongoing impacts of residential schools and colonization.
With little ones, learning can start simply: reading an Indigenous-authored book together, listening to Indigenous voices, attending a community gathering, or talking about how every child deserves to feel safe, loved and connected to their family and culture.
A few places to begin in New Westminster:
Look for Indigenous-authored children's books at New Westminster Public Library (note the library is closed on September 30).
On September 30, families are welcome at the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation gathering at Queen's Park, from 11:00 am–4:00 pm. The free, all-ages event is presented by Spirit of the Children Society, QayQayt First Nation and the City of New Westminster, and includes ceremony, speakers, a teaching powwow, cultural activities and local vendors. New Westminster
Families can also explore Indigenous public art throughout New Westminster or learn more through the City's Year of Truth resources. New Westminster
Reconciliation is not something we complete in a day. It begins with listening, learning and making space for truth.
