When is Truth and Reconciliation Day?
In 2026, Truth and Reconciliation Day falls on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. It is classified here as a federal general holiday.
History of Truth and Reconciliation Day
For more than a century, First Nations, Inuit and Métis children were removed from their families and sent to residential schools operated through partnerships between the Canadian government and churches. Many children experienced abuse, neglect, cultural suppression and death. Survivors and Indigenous communities carried this history long before it was widely acknowledged in Canadian public life.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada gathered testimony from thousands of Survivors and issued 94 Calls to Action in 2015. Call to Action 80 asked the federal government, working with Indigenous peoples, to create a statutory holiday that would honour Survivors and ensure public remembrance of residential-school history and legacy. Parliament enacted the holiday through Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on June 3, 2021.
September 30 was already observed as Orange Shirt Day, inspired by Phyllis Webstad’s story of having an orange shirt taken from her when she arrived at a residential school. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation now shares that date. It is a federal statutory holiday, while provincial recognition varies. The day is intended for learning, commemoration and action rather than celebration.
How Truth and Reconciliation Day is observed
A federal statutory holiday. Federal offices and federally regulated workplaces observe the day; provincial and private-sector rules vary.
Traditions of Truth and Reconciliation Day
Wearing orange
Orange shirts honour Survivors and recall the message that Every Child Matters. Organizers stress that the symbol should accompany learning and support for Indigenous-led work.
Survivor-led commemorations
Ceremonies, walks and gatherings create space for Survivors, families and communities to speak and remember. Attendance should follow local protocols and centre Indigenous voices.
Education and reflection
Schools, workplaces and cultural institutions host discussions about residential schools, treaties and colonial policy. Many people read the Calls to Action and consider practical commitments.
Supporting Indigenous organizations
Donations, purchases from Indigenous businesses and participation in Indigenous-led programs can turn remembrance into sustained support beyond a single day.
Dates and observance rules are checked against the official Government of Canada holiday guidance. Provincial, territorial, school and private-employer schedules may differ.
History sources: Canadian Heritage: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Truth and Reconciliation Commission reports and Calls to Action.
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