Ontario Commemorates National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day
September 30, 2025
On September 30th, across Ontario and Canada, we observe the fifth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
Today, and every day, we honour the Survivors, families and communities of Indian Residential Schools and remember the children who did not make it home. It is a chance to learn, reflect and reaffirm our role in advancing meaningful reconciliation.
Acknowledging the painful legacy and impacts of one of the darkest chapters in Canada’s history is a vital step towards advancing meaningful reconciliation.
Ontario has led the country by committing $124.5 million to date to support the identification, investigation, protection and commemoration of burials at former Residential Schools across the province, including $32.1 million announced in our 2025-26 Ontario Budget.
Our government remains committed to continuing the collaboration underway with Indigenous communities and leaders to enhance public awareness and education on the legacy of the Indian Residential School system, and how to best commemorate the annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
People can visit Ontario.ca/LearntheLegacy to learn about the history of Indian Residential Schools and can also participate in local events in their community and around the province in September and throughout the year to support their journey of learning and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.