National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
About September 30th
The federal government announced the creation a new statutory holiday known as the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation to be recognized on September 30 each year. This day fulfills the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call-to-Action #80 and will serve as a day of remembrance, reflection, action and learning. Since 2013, September 30 has been known as Orange Shirt Day, a day to recognize the tragic history and long-standing effects of residential schools.
Call-to-Action #80:
"We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. "
Well-being Resources:
If this is a medical emergency, dial 911.
Local (Ottawa)
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Inuuqatigiit Center for Children, Youth and Families: Website
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Minwaashin Lodge Centre for Indigenous Women: Website
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Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health: 613-748-0657 Website
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Distress Centre of Ottawa: 613-238-3311 (24 hours a day/7 days a week) - Emotional support, crisis management, and referrals.
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Métis Nation of Ontario: 1-877-767-7572 (24/7 crisis and addictions line) or 613-217-3143 (non-urgent support for children and youth).
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The Mental Health Crisis Line: 613-722-6914 (24 hours a day/7 days a week) - Compassionate crisis support.
Provincial (Ontario)
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Talk 4 Healing: 1-855-554-HEAL (Available in 14 languages) - Support for Indigenous women.
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Ontario Online & Text Crisis Services: Chat and text available from 2:00 pm to 2:00 am at #258258.
National
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National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419 (24 hours a day) - Support for former students and affected individuals.
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Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3310 (24/7) - Telephone counselling available in multiple languages. Website
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Native Youth Crisis Line: 1-877-209-1266 (24/7) - Crisis line for Indigenous youth in Canada and the U.S.
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Non-Insured Health Benefits: 1-800-640-0642 - Information on mental health counselling support for those with Status.
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Free Mental Health Counselling for Residential School Survivors: Chat available from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM or text “SUPPORT” to 258258. Website
Learning Resources
These resources provide opportunities for learning, reflection, and active participation in Truth and Reconciliation efforts in Canada.
1. National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR)
Website: nctr.ca
The NCTR houses the history and documents related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and provides educational resources, reports, and survivor stories.
2. Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action
The TRC's 94 Calls to Action outline steps for healing and reconciliation in Canada.
Document: Calls to Action PDF
3. Orange Shirt Day Official Website
Website: orangeshirtday.org
Learn more about Orange Shirt Day, which coincides with National Truth and Reconciliation Day, and how to participate in the movement to honor residential school survivors.
4. Government of Canada: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Website: canada.ca
Provides information on the significance of the day, government initiatives, and ways to observe.
5. Legacy of Hope Foundation
Website: legacyofhope.ca
An Indigenous-led organization dedicated to educating Canadians on the residential school system and its lasting impacts through exhibitions, workshops, and programs.
6. Project of Heart
Website: projectofheart.ca
An educational initiative that seeks to promote awareness of Indigenous history, residential schools, and the reconciliation process.
7. Indigenous Watchdog
Website: indigenouswatchdog.org
Tracks progress on the TRC's Calls to Action, providing updates on government and community actions related to reconciliation efforts.
9. First Nations Child & Family Caring Society
Website: fncaringsociety.com
This organization advocates for the well-being of First Nations children and families and provides resources to support reconciliation efforts.