The Government of Canada designated September 30 the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis survivors, their families and communities.
On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, it is essential for all to reflect on this country’s colonial past and to better understand the harsh truths that many have not heard or wished to not learn, and further some deny. For Indigenous families, this day will be a reminder of the real harms and colonial violence that not only began in the early days of Canada, but continue with public sector systems, legislation, social policies, and actions of the Canadian State. These are the reasons that the 94 Calls to Action are presented – to call out the systemic issues as a path forward in Canada.
In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the CSLA encourages the profession to learn more:
- read the Guide to Land Acknowledgements
- learn about our newest honorary members, Senator Murray Sinclair and Niigan Sinclair
- read the CSLA's statement on reconciliation
- learn about reconciliation by visiting our 'Resources' page
- get involved in the conversation by volunteering your time or donating to the cause
- wear orange: both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”. The orange shirt is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.
- get your children involved in the “Truth and Reconciliation Week” educational program
- get informed by learning more about First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Resources
- KPU Indigenous Dialogue Series
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Truth & Reconciliation (video)
- APTN Downloadable Assets
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Resources by TRC
- Picking Up the Pieces: The Making of the Witness Blanket Documentary (Content warning: sensitive topics)
- Canadian Architect's list of resources for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation