On September 30, 2026, Canada will observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This day honours the children who never returned home from residential schools, Survivors, and their families and communities. It is also an opportunity to learn about the history and ongoing impacts of the residential school system and to reflect on our individual and collective roles in reconciliation.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which called for a federal statutory day of commemoration to honour Survivors and ensure that the history and legacy of residential schools remain part of public remembrance.
At the CDTO, Truth and Reconciliation is an important priority. The College is committed to embracing and reflecting First Nations, Métis and Inuit knowledge, cultures and traditions, and to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous communities based on mutual trust, respect and reciprocity.
Learn more about CDTO’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation
Truth and Reconciliation Week
September 21–25, 2026
The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is offering free virtual programming throughout the week. This includes daily Lunch and Learn webinars that are open to the public and explore the history and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. The webinars are available in English, French and ASL.
Learn about Truth and Reconciliation Week 2026
View the free Lunch and Learn webinars
Remembering the Children
September 30 at 12 p.m. ET
APTN and the NCTR will present the National Commemorative Gathering: Remembering the Children live from Parliament Hill. The 90-minute event will honour residential school Survivors and feature Indigenous artists.
Learn more about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events
Orange Shirt Day
September 30 is also Orange Shirt Day, inspired by residential school Survivor Phyllis Webstad’s experience of having her orange shirt taken from her when she entered residential school. Wearing orange is one way to honour Survivors and remember the children who never returned home.
Learn more about Orange Shirt Day
Truth and reconciliation are ongoing. We encourage the CDTO community to use these free opportunities to continue learning, listening and reflecting.
