National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to be observed in Ontario public schools

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day will be observed in all Ontario public schools today to reflect and honour Survivors, their families and the many communities affected by the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools.

Orange Shirt Day is inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt that her grandmother gave her was taken from her on her first day at a residential school.

The government announced on Sept. 29 that the Ministry of Education will engage with Indigenous partners over the next year to develop new comprehensive curriculum resources to be taught annually on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation “to further deepen our shared understanding of the enduring intergenerational impact and ensure every student across the province receives a consistent education on our history.”

“By developing these materials for use in all classrooms by September 30, 2026, teachers and students will be able to engage further, learn about the impact of residential schools and commemorate those who have been affected.

“These resources will ensure students and teachers are well supported and are learning consistently across the province,” read a joint statement by Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, and Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation.

READ MORE: Confronting Canada’s residential school history at what was the Mohawk Institute