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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a federal holiday observed every year on September 30. It is a time to:

  • Honour the survivors of residential schools
  • Remember the children who never came home
  • Acknowledge the lasting impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples

This day is meant for learning, reflection, and action. It encourages everyone in Canada to better understand the history of residential schools and to take steps toward reconciliation and a more inclusive future.

Background

Residential Schools

From the late 1800s to the late 1900s, Indigenous children were taken from their families and sent to residential schools across Canada. These schools were designed to erase Indigenous languages and cultures. Many children suffered neglect and abuse.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission

In 2008, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was created as part of a settlement with survivors. Over several years, the TRC gathered stories from survivors and, in 2015, released 94 Calls to Action. These Calls to Action include steps for governments, organizations, and all Canadians to help address the harms caused by residential schools and to move forward together.

Creation of the Day

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in 2021 in response to the TRC’s Call to Action #80. The day is dedicated to honouring survivors and remembering the children who did not survive.

Why September 30?

The date coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which began in 2013 as a grassroots movement. Orange Shirt Day was inspired by the story of a residential school survivor whose new orange shirt was taken away on her first day at school. The orange shirt has since become a powerful symbol of the experiences of children in residential schools and the resilience of Indigenous peoples.

Questions to Guide Reflection and Learning

Truth and reconciliation is not only about one day—it’s ongoing work. These questions invite you to pause and reflect on your own experiences, your community, and the role each of us can play in building understanding and reconciliation.

  1. How has my family benefited from colonization, both in the past and today?
  2. How did my family come to live on these lands, and what legacy does that carry?
  3. Have I ever repeated, accepted, or acted on racist or discriminatory beliefs—whether knowingly or without realizing they were harmful? How did I respond or learn from that experience?
  4. Have I taken time to listen to Indigenous peoples—their stories, experiences, and truths—without expecting them to educate me?
  5. Do I believe Indigenous peoples need to be “helped” or “rescued”? Where does that belief come from?
  6. Why do I see myself as an ally? Am I motivated by guilt, recognition from others, or a genuine desire for change?
  7. What does being a true ally look like in my everyday life? Beyond symbolic actions, such as wearing an orange shirt, what steps can I take to support Truth and Reconciliation in a meaningful way?

Opportunities to Learn and Participate

Explore Indigenous Public Art in New Westminster

Take a self-guided tour of Indigenous public art located throughout the city. Each piece reflects the resilience, culture, and history of Indigenous peoples, from totem poles and sculptures to crosswalks and murals. 

Downtown

Queen’s Park

  • Queen’s Park Totem Pole – Traditional totem pole honouring Indigenous heritage. (Located in front of The Gallery at Queen's Park.)

  • Maquabeak Pole – Coast Salish story pole honouring Maquabeak, the Great Bear. (Located near Queen's Park Arena.)

Sapperton

  • Miyiwts – Water’s Edge – Artwork showing the relationship between people, water, and land. (Located at təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre.)

  • Ab Ovo – Sculpture symbolizing birth, growth, and renewal. (Located at the Jamieson Court entrance to Glenbrook Ravine.)

  • Foreshore – Installation reflecting the natural and cultural importance of the river’s edge. (Located on the exterior of 180 East Columbia Street.)

This is only a selection of the City's public art. For a complete list, visit the Public Art Registry.

A Year of Truth

Learn more about the City of New Westminster’s reconciliation journey. The Year of Truth website shares stories of the City’s historical mistakes and the steps being taken toward building respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples.