About the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a federal statutory holiday on 30 September. It honours the children who never returned home from residential schools, Survivors, their families and their communities.
Purpose of the day
Canadian Heritage explains that public commemoration of the painful history and continuing impacts of residential schools is an important part of reconciliation. The day creates space for remembrance, learning and reflection.
It takes place on the same date as Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led commemorative day. The orange shirt represents harms including the loss of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by children in the residential school system.
Federal holiday status
Parliament created the federal statutory holiday through legislative amendments, and the Canada Labour Code now includes it among ten general holidays. The date is fixed on 30 September.
Federal status does not automatically make the day identical in every province, territory, school or workplace. This page describes the Canada Labour Code calendar for eligible employees of federally regulated employers.
Marking the day respectfully
Official guidance encourages Canadians to learn about the residential school system and to honour Survivors, families and communities. Educational and commemorative activities should center the stated purpose rather than treating the day as a generic celebration.
The subject can be traumatic for Survivors and families. Canadian Heritage publishes support information alongside its educational resources, and readers should approach first-person accounts and community events with care.
Common questions about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
When is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
It is fixed on 30 September each year.
Is it the same date as Orange Shirt Day?
Yes. Both take place on 30 September, although Orange Shirt Day began as an Indigenous-led commemorative initiative.