September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada—a day to honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, the survivors, their families, and their communities.
The day originated in 2013 as Orange Shirt Day in Williams Lake, British Columbia. Orange Shirt Day began to honour Residential School Survivors, their families, and those who never returned home. Today serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impacts of the Residential School system. What began as a grassroots initiative has since evolved into a nationally recognized movement.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was officially established in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which called on the federal government, in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, to create a statutory holiday recognizing Survivors, their families, and communities while ensuring the history and legacy of residential schools are publicly remembered.
To support staff in their journey of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, the NPCA head office will be closed on Monday, September 30, as we reflect on the tragic history and ongoing impacts of residential schools—a vital part of the reconciliation process.
We stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities across Canada, honouring those who have survived, and those who never made it home. We encourage residents and visitors across the watershed to learn about Truth and Reconciliation, Indigenous culture, treaties, history, art, and traditions on an ongoing basis.
On Saturday, September 26, NPCA, Bridges Niagara, and Kakekalanicks Consulting partnered to host Reawakening at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area. Set within the beautiful landscape of the Niagara Escarpment and Carolinian forest, the Reawakening event series returned with ‘Stories Around the Fire’ featuring Geneviève Gros-Louis.
There are many events and activities to attend in recognition of Sept. 30. We invite you to explore the list of local events in our community that you may wish to attend or share with others. Let us take this time to deepen our understanding of Indigenous histories, the lasting impacts of colonialism, and our shared responsibility toward meaningful reconciliation.
Local Events
A Day to Listen - Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund and local radio stations
September 30, 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Flag Raising - Niagara Falls (4310 Queen Street)
September 30, 10:00 AM
Niagara Falls Illumination - Niagara Falls
September 30, top of every hour for 15 minutes
Flag Raising - Pelham (20 Pelham Town Square)
September 30, 10:00 AM
Flag Raising - Niagara-on-the-Lake (1593 Four Mile Creek Road, Virgil)
September 29, 10:00 AM
Metis Encampment Display - Fonthill (100 Meridian Way)
September 28, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Learn More
National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation