Mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at an event in Clarington or Durham Region

September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. It is a day to reflect on and acknowledge the painful legacy of the Residential School System in Canada that separated Indigenous children from their families and communities and stripped away their traditions, culture and languages.

It is a day to honour the children who never returned home, the survivors, their families and communities affected by the legacy of residential schools. Below is a list of initiatives taking place in Clarington and Durham Region. It is an opportunity to participate in the initiatives and learn more about why Truth and Reconciliation matters for each of us.

Region of Durham’s Truth and Reconciliation Walk
September 20 | 9:30 a.m. to noon

Join Durham Region, Pickering and Whitby for a walk in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The walk will begin at Durham Regional Headquarters, Pathway to Reconciliation Crosswalk (605 Rossland Road East, Whitby) and travel along Rossland Road to Fallingbrook Park. Take part in a reflection activity before returning to Durham Regional Headquarters, where refreshments will be served.

Tie an Orange Ribbon at South Courtice Arena
September 21 to 30

Join us on September 21, from 3 to 6 p.m. during the launch of the new amenities at South Courtice Arena where you will have the opportunity to tie an orange ribbon to commemorate the children lost and negatively impacted by the harm caused by residential schools. This initiative will continue until September 30.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Indigenous Beading Event
September 26 | 6:15 to 7:45 p.m.

Join Clarington Library, Museums and Archives at Courtice Library for a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Indigenous Beading event. Susan Byrne will lead a learning session on the art and history of Indigenous beading, the significance of orange shirts, and how art is used to commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. Beading kits will be provided for making your own project. This event is hosted in partnership with Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle.

Orange Shirt Day
September 30 | All Day

Wear an orange shirt in honour of the lost children, survivors, and families impacted by residential schools across Canada.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., participate in the City of Pickering’s Truth and Reconciliation Community Gathering at Esplanade Park. Please come out and support reflections and ceremonies that will be held with Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and youth.

Stay tuned to our social media channels on September 30 to find resources and learn more about Truth and Reconciliation and residential schools.