Truth and Reconciliation Day

Canada, Sept 30, 2025:

National Reflection

• Canada marked its 5th annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, honoring Indigenous children who suffered or died in residential schools.
• The day coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report, which documented over 6,000 deaths mostly from malnutrition and disease.

Ceremonies & Events

• Parliament Hill hosted the Remembering the Children gathering, with remarks from Prime Minister Mark Carney and Governor General Mary Simon.
• Events spanned coast to coast:
  • Toronto held a legacy gathering
  • Vancouver hosted a memorial walk
  • Okanagan featured a paddle ceremony

Progress & Challenges

• Of the 94 Calls to Action from the TRC, only a dozen has been fully implemented.
• Gov. Gen. Simon noted “meaningful progress,” citing inclusive education and Indigenous language initiatives, but warned that denialism and discrimination persist.

(Source Global News)

—Agencies