September 30, 2025 marks the fifth edition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR), established to commemorate the children who never returned home from residential schools, as well as the survivors, their families, and their communities. Created as a federal holiday in 2021, this day calls us to remembrance, recognition, and solidarity.
This date also coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots movement from Indigenous communities that raises awareness about the painful legacy of residential schools. The symbol stems from the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at residential school — a stark example of the systemic violence aimed at erasing Indigenous cultures and breaking family bonds.
A National Commemoration
In 2025, a 90-minute multilingual broadcast titled Remembering the Children will bring together APTN, CBC/Radio-Canada, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, and the Algonquin Nation to mark this 5th anniversary. Widely aired, the event will feature powerful reflections from Elders and survivors, along with artistic performances from Inuit, Métis, and First Nations members. It will be a moment of memory, unity, and hope.
Why This Day Matters
The residential school system, which operated from 1831 to 1996, left deep scars on Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The NDTR is an opportunity to restore truth, honor the victims, and foster collective healing. It is also a call to take concrete steps toward building a future rooted in justice, inclusion, and respect.
How to Get Involved in 2025
Here are some meaningful ways to participate on September 30 — and beyond to support reconciliation:
- Wear an orange shirt as a sign of solidarity.
- Watch the special APTN broadcast, also available on APTN lumi.
- Read Indigenous works such as Kukum (Michel Jean), Split Tooth (Tanya Tagaq), Heart Berries (Terese Marie Mailhot), and more.
- Watch documentaries on residential schools and Indigenous cultures from the NFB or APTN.
- Take part in a commemorative march or a local event organized by an Indigenous community.
- Donate to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation or to an organization supporting survivors.
- Take a moment of silence, light a candle, or place a pair of shoes in memory of the children who never came home.
- Review the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and commit to carrying out at least one.
Linked to the Season of Creation
This day also resonates with the broader Season of Creation, which calls us to care for our common home and address injustices experienced by marginalized peoples. Honoring survivors of residential schools and supporting Indigenous communities is a meaningful act of integral ecology, rooted in justice, listening, and transformation — values strongly emphasized by Pope Francis.
Ultimately, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an invitation to walk together on the path toward healing and reconciliation.
➡️ More resources available here.