Today we observe the second annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

On September 30^th of each year, we honour the Survivors of residential schools and remember the children who did not return, as well as their families and communities. We take this day as a day of reflection to recognize and commemorate the harmful legacy of the residential school system in Canada.

For over 160 years, the residential school system removed Indigenous children from their families, communities, and culture.

From the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 calls to action, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a direct response to Call to Action 80, which called for a federal statutory day of commemoration.

Today is also Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day to raise awareness of the intergenerational impacts of residential schools, and to affirm that Every Child Matters. The orange shirt symbolizes how the residential school system took away the indigenous identities of its students.

Neil Squire is committed to understanding the truths of our shared history, to accept and learn from it and in turn we are determined to contribute to the creation of a better, more inclusive Canada.

Neil Squire offices across Canada are closed today so that staff may reflect on the day and take part in local ceremonies.

To learn more about Truth and Reconciliation, here are some resources:

• Truth and Reconciliation Commission Reports
• Reconciliation Canada
• Indigenous Disability Awareness Month

Tags: Truth and Reconciliation