September 30: Orange Shirt Day & National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
On September 30, the City of Calgary will acknowledge Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
This day serves as an occasion for communities to unite in reflection on the tragic history and enduring legacy of Indian Residential Schools. It is a time to honour survivors, their families, communities, and the children who never returned home. Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation also provide a platform for Indigenous peoples, local governments, schools, and communities to come together in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation and hope for future generations.
Please join us in commemorating Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Wednesday, September 30, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am.
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland - 750 9 Ave SE
The program will feature keynote speakers, remarks from the Mayor, a moment of silence, and cultural performances that highlight Indigenous traditions and youth voices, culminating in a round dance. Together, we will reflect on the legacy of residential schools and reaffirm our commitment to truth, reconciliation and shared understanding.
Learn more or join us the event online by visiting calgary.ca/orangeshirtday
Orange Shirt Day
Orange Shirt Day is an annual event that began as a grassroots movement inspired by Phyllis Webstad's experience of having her orange shirt taken away on her first day at a residential school. It has since gained international recognition as a day to raise awareness of the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts of residential schools.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours the children who never returned home and survivors of Indian residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the healing journey of Indigenous people who are impacted and represents a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. The day also provides an opportunity for non-Indigenous people to deepen their understanding of this history, reflect on its ongoing impacts, and consider their own role in advancing truth and reconciliation.
White Goose Flying Report
The White Goose Flying report was written in 2016 by the Calgary Aboriginal Urban Advisory Committee, an advisory committee to Calgary City Council. The report is named after an Indian Industrial School student who died while attending the St. Dunstan’s Indian Industrial School; his name was Jack White Goose Flying.
Of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 calls to action, the White Goose Flying report identifies 43 that the City of Calgary could directly implement or support. The City of Calgary’s Indigenous Relations Office was created to support The City with the advancement of truth and reconciliation, as outlined in the White Goose Flying report and Indigenous Policy.
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