Each year, on September 30, we have the opportunity to come together to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. It’s a time to reflect on the history and legacy of residential schools, to remember the children who never came home, and to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #80 asks all Canadians to ensure public commemoration remains “a vital component of the reconciliation process.”
Across Calgary, many events and initiatives provide opportunities to listen, learn, and take meaningful steps toward reconciliation.
Sept. 25 from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m. – Join the Centre for Newcomers for an afternoon of learning and reflection on Truth and Reconciliation. The event will feature a panel discussion with Elder Evelyn Good Striker, Christy Morgan, and Henry Giroux.
Sept. 29 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. – Attend a free screening of Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot man at the Central Library. It’s an intimate portrait of Indigenous masculinity told through the eyes of filmmaker and director Trevor Solway.
Sept. 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – The City of Calgary is hosting Orange Shirt Day at The Confluence Historical Site (southwest corner). Speakers include Mayor Gondek, Indigenous Elders and school board representatives. A blessing from an Elder will start the event, followed by Indigenous dancers.
Sept. 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. – Pokaiks Children’s Commemorative Walk and Gathering. The walk begins at Peace Bridge and ends at Contemporary Calgary, where you can experience performances and connect with artisans.
Sept. 30 showtimes at 12:30, 2:30 and 6:30 p.m. – The Confluence has partnered with Quest Theatre to offer free public performances of the play We Are All Treaty PeopleWe Are All Treaty People.
Sept. 30 free events throughout the day – Indigenous art, storytelling, and culture at the Werklund Centre, including an Indigenous Makers Market & Pow Wow Showcase, Gallery Talks & Tours, Echoes of the Land auditory experience, and the Elders Story Project. Please note that some events require registration.
How can you honour the day?
- Listen to an Elder share Indigenous knowledge on building enough for all futures.
- Wear an orange shirt to support and honour the children who didn't return from residential schools.
- Attend a community event – bring your family, friends, or colleagues.
- Read and watch works by Indigenous authors and creators, like Phyllis’s Orange Shirt.
- Reflect on your personal calls to action and how you’re advancing reconciliation using the TRC’s 94 Calls to Action.
- Support Indigenous-led initiatives and businesses.
Reconciliation is not a single day or event. It’s a journey we take together. September 30 is an opportunity to listen deeply, learn from survivors, honour the children who never came home, and commit to meaningful action.
At Vibrant Communities Calgary and through the Enough for All strategy, we continue to stand alongside Indigenous partners, community members, and organizations in advancing justice, healing, and systemic change.
