National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.

The day honours Survivors of residential schools, the children who never returned home and their families and communities. It is also an opportunity to learn about the history and ongoing impacts of the residential school system and 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. Federal legislation establishing September 30 as a statutory holiday received Royal Assent in 2021.

The City of Red Deer observes September 30 as a holiday. City Hall and City administrative offices are closed. See Holiday Hours for information about City facilities and services.

Red Deer's connection

The history of residential schools is also part of Red Deer’s history.

The Red Deer Indian Industrial School operated from 1893 to 1919 west of Red Deer, across the river from Fort Normandeau. Children died while attending the school, and the impacts of the residential school system continue to be felt by Survivors, their families and Indigenous communities.

Learning about this local history and listening to Indigenous voices are important parts of Red Deer’s reconciliation journey.

Learn more about the Red Deer Indian Industrial School.

Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative movement that takes place on September 30.

The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children through the residential school system and carries the message that Every Child Matters.

On September 30, people across Canada are encouraged to wear orange to honour Survivors and their families and remember the children who never returned home.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day share the same date and are closely connected, but they have distinct origins.

Ways to recognize September 30

Reconciliation is an ongoing process. September 30 is an opportunity to remember, learn and consider the actions each of us can take throughout the year.

You can:

  • Attend a local commemorative or educational event.
  • Wear orange in recognition of Orange Shirt Day.
  • Learn about the history and legacy of residential schools, including the Red Deer Indian Industrial School.
  • Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
  • Listen to and learn from First Nations, Métis and Inuit voices.
  • Visit Indigenous cultural, historic or educational sites.
  • Support Indigenous artists, businesses and organizations.
  • Consider what reconciliation can mean in your workplace, relationships and community.

Orange Ribbon Project

The Orange Ribbon Project provides another opportunity for Red Deerians to participate in the journey toward Truth and Reconciliation.

Until October 2, 2026, community members can pick up a free biodegradable orange ribbon from participating City facilities and tie it to a plant or tree in a place that holds meaning for them as an act of remembrance, reflection and solidarity.

Learn more about the Orange Ribbon Project.

Support

Learning about residential schools can be difficult and may bring up painful experiences.

The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides support for former residential school students and their families 24 hours a day at 1-866-925-4419. The City’s current Red Deer Indian Industrial School page also directs Survivors and intergenerational Survivors to this service.

Related information