National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—also known as Orange Shirt Day—September 30

On September 30, honour the children who never returned home and Survivors of 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 reconciliation process.

Victoria Orange Shirt Day founders Eddy Charlie and Kristin Spray, together with intergenerational Survivor Diane Sam, share powerful perspectives on the ongoing effects of residential schools.
PLEASE NOTE: This video may be traumatizing for people with experiences of residential school, child abuse, or sexual abuse. We invite you to prepare yourself emotionally before reviewing this content and reach out for support as needed. We encourage children to speak with their guardian in advance of watching.

Commemorating National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day in Saanich and Greater Victoria

Several local organizations offer resources and free events to commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day:

Victoria Orange Shirt Day

South Island Powwow

Saanich is proud to support the South Island Powwow, an opportunity to recognize Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation. Through song and dance, traditional Indigenous cultures and resiliency are celebrated.

  • Where: Royal Athletic Park 1014 Caledonia Ave, Victoria
  • When: Saturday, September 30th, 2023
  • For more details, please visit the South Island Powwow webpage 

Reconcile: Candid Truth From Survivors

Witness the voices of residential school survivors and 60’s scoopers in this event focusing on hard truths and healing. Come watch the acclaimed documentary " We Were Children" by Tim Wolochatiuk and the listen to Elders, Patrick Stephenson ( Pakayagun) and Aldeen Mason share their own experiences within the systems of removal.

  • Where: St. Ann's Academy, 835 Humboldt Street, Victoria
  • When: Saturday, September 30th, 2023, 4:30–7pm 
  • For more information and to register, please visit the event page 

Capital Bike Truth & Reconciliation Day Ride 

Join Capital Bike for a free, familiy-friendly Truth & Reconciliation Day Ride on Saturday, September 30. 

  • Ride starts at Songhees Park at 9:15 AM. Diane Sam, of Songhees First Nation, will talk about the impact of residential schools and the land we live and play on.
  • This will be a parade-style ride, using the full road, with VidPD closing the road off to automobile traffic.   At 11:30 AM, we will arrive at the South Island Powwow.
  • The Locker Bike Valet will be at the Powwow, free as always.