September 30th is National Day of Truth and Reconciliation and organizations across Toronto will be honouring the day.
This day is about listening to Indigenous voices and perspectives, honouring the survivors of residential schools, and learning about reconciliation efforts.
It’s also a result of the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 calls to action.
Here are seven ways you can honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to stand in solidarity with survivors, hear their stories, and participate in the effort toward reconciliation.
Truth and Reconciliation in the Healing Garden
Head to The Gatehouse Healing Garden for a Day of Remembrance, Healing, and Empowerment. The event aims to “illuminate critical issues facing Indigenous peoples in Canada through an impactful and engaging storytelling.”
Join organizers as they will honour and remember the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities all while addressing the challenges they face today.
There will be guest speakers too!
When: September 27th, 2024 from 2 PM to 3:30 PM
Where: The Gatehouse – 3101 Lake Shore Blvd West
Toronto Council Fire Indigenous Legacy Gathering
Head down to Nathan Phillips Square for the annual Indigenous Legacy Gathering, which is dedicated to showcasing and supporting Indigenous culture, tradition, and arts.
The Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre will feature Indigenous presentations, marketplace, performances, workshops, food vendors, and opportunities for listening and learning.
When: September 27th to 30th, 2024
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
Native Child and Family Services of Toronto Annual Pow Wow
This 27th annual Every Child Matters community pow-wow will take place in Dufferin Grove Park on September 28th.
The sunrise ceremony will be held at 6 AM, followed by grand entry at 12 PM and closing ceremony at 5 PM.
There will also be dancing, drumming, and opportunities to support this important local service.
When: September 28th, 2024
Where: Dufferin Grove Park, 875 Dufferin Avenue
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at The Toronto Zoo
On September 30th, the Toronto Zoo and its Indigenous Relations team will take the day to reflect. Guests are asked to join the Your Toronto Zoo in recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and fill the Front Entrance bridge with orange ribbons.
“All are welcome to visit the Zoo on September 30th during operating hours to reflect, learn in our First Nation Art Garden (outside Americas Pavilion), and explore the First Nation Traditional Knowledge Trail (within Canadian Domain),” shares organizers.
Complimentary admission will be offered to all self-identifying Indigenous people, including First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and non-status First Nations people. Proof of identification will not be required.
For entry, head directly to the Zoo’s admission gates – no online ticket purchase is required.
When: September 30th, 2023, 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Where: The Toronto Zoo
Toronto Public Library’s Indigenous Reading List
Take this day to listen and learn from Canada’s Indigenous communities on this important day. Pick up one of these books from the Toronto Public Library’s list of must-read titles written by Indigenous authors, writers, illustrators and Knowledge Keepers.
Though these are just of few must-reads, there are plenty more out there.
You can also read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action and the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice.
National Film Board’s Indigenous-made Cinema Collection
Watch films and documentaries that reflect on the residential school experience or one of the many titles in the National Film Board’s rich online collection of Indigenous-made films.
See the full collection here
Support and Give Back
If you don’t have your orange shirt yet, you can purchase one from an Indigenous artist or company that supports Indigenous causes or directly through the Orange Shirt Society.
Donations can also be made to the Indian Residential School Survivors (IRSS) Legacy project, and volunteer for local Indigenous organizations or causes.
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