09/30/2026
Today, September 30th, marks the 6th National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. A special observance honoring Survivors of residential schools, a chance to remember the children who never returned home, and a day to reflect on the families and communities whose lives continue to be shaped by loss, trauma, strength, and resilience.
To reflect on the truths of our history, we must commit to ongoing community-led learning and unlearning. This includes public commemoration of the tragic and painful history of residential schools and their ongoing impacts, which is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
This federal statutory observance was created through legislative amendments made by Parliament. Both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30th.
Orange Shirt Day is a commemorative day led by Indigenous communities to raise awareness about the intergenerational impacts of residential schools on children, families, and communities. It honours Indigenous children who were lost in the residential school system. The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem that many Indigenous children experienced. This day reminds us that “Every Child Matters”. On September 30th, we encourage everyone to wear orange to honour the thousands of Survivors of residential schools.
Following National Day for Truth and Reconciliation are Treaty Day and Mi’kmaq History Month:
Treaty Day, observed on October 1st, recognizes the Peace and Friendship Treaties between the Mi’kmaq and the Crown and provides an opportunity to learn about the continuing relationship and responsibilities arising from those treaties.
Mi’kmaq History Month, observed throughout October, highlights Mi’kmaq history, culture, language, traditions, and contributions, while creating opportunities to learn directly from Mi’kmaq knowledge, perspectives, and experiences. Click here for the 2026 Mi’kmaq History Month Poster:
https://nsbs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MHM-poster-2026-ENG-Online-1.pdf
