September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

24 September 2021

To commemorate Indigenous Peoples and acknowledge the history and ongoing trauma caused by residential schools, the federal government designated September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, an annual statutory day.

What this means for British Columbians

Across British Columbia, September 30 will be a day of commemoration. This is an opportunity to learn, acknowledge and understand the truth of our past, and to take action to create a more inclusive B.C.

Actions to honour the day

To expand your knowledge, learn about the residential school history and listen to former Lieutenant Governor Steven Point talk about reconciliation.

Explore learning opportunities:

Read books by Indigenous authors:

Five Little Indians by Michelle Good
Picking Up the Pieces: The Making of the Witness Blanket by Carey Newman and Kirstie Hudson

Demonstrate your commitment and solidarity. Wear an orange shirt and register to join the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation online for Truth and Reconciliation Week 2021 (Sept. 27 - Oct. 1), an event that continues the conversations from Every Child Matters.

Participate in a community event with Indigenous Peoples and residential school survivors.

Truth and reconciliation is not a new concept, but it is a new practice. Be kind and compassionate as we begin to explore this unfamiliar territory.

What this means for employers and workers

September 30 is now a national public holiday. It’ll be observed by federal employees, federally-regulated workplaces like banks, provincial public-sector employees and teachers.

While many public services will be open, some may operate at reduced levels, and most schools, post-secondary institutions, crown corporations and some health-sector workplaces will be closed. As on all statutory days, private-sector businesses make the choice to remain open or to close.