September 30th is Orange Shirt Day, and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the painful legacy of Indian Residential Schools and honour the survivors.

It’s a day to pause and remember the children who were taken, forced into Residential Schools and those who never returned home.

This is a part of Canada’s dark history, and it continues to have an impact on Indigenous people in Ontario and across the country.

I encourage you to honour this day by learning the truth told by Indigenous voices – explore online resources or attend local events in your area. I hope you will join me in reflecting on the history of Ontario and learn about the actions you can take toward reconciliation – not just on this day, but every day.

Show your support by wearing an orange shirt from an Indigenous vendor or organization. Wear it to honour the children who never came home.

Visit Ontario.ca/LearntheLegacy to read about Indian Residential Schools and access other resources.

Thank you

Neil Lumsden, MPP

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Background

• Ontario recognizes September 30th as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day to honour Survivors of Indian Residential Schools.
  
  
• In 2021, the federal government designated September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a direct response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action #80, which called for a federal statutory holiday to honour Survivors of Indian Residential Schools, their families, communities and ensure public commemoration of the history and legacy of the Indian Residential School system.
  
  
• Orange Shirt Day was inspired by Indian Residential School Survivor Phyllis Webstad, from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation, who has bravely shared her experience of attending St. Joseph Mission Residential School in British Columbia. The day continues to organically grow in support and meaningful observance. 
  
  
• The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day is an important part of Ontario’s journey towards truth and advancing meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. 
  
  
• This day marks an opportunity for the people of Ontario to learn about and reflect on the legacy of the Indian Residential School system, the intergenerational impacts it continues to have on Indigenous families and communities, and to honour and remember those who never made it home.