The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day are both observed annually on September 30th. These commemorations provide an opportunity to deepen Canada’s understanding of the intergenerational effects of residential schools and to reflect on their enduring legacy as part of the ongoing journey toward truth, healing, and reconciliation.

Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters began in Williams Lake, British Columbia, on September 30, 2013.

The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem that many Indigenous children experienced. This day reminds us that “Every Child Matters”.

Public commemoration of this tragic chapter in Canada’s history, and its lasting effects, plays an essential role in advancing truth and reconciliation.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which called on the federal government, in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, to create a statutory holiday recognizing Survivors, their families, and communities while ensuring the history and legacy of residential schools are publicly remembered. Bill C-5, which established the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a federal statutory holiday, received Royal Assent on June 3, 2021.

Our Regional Cadet Support Unit (Central) has authorized cadets and staff to voluntarily wear orange shirts under uniforms (C5 – STU Sea Training Uniform with Blue long sleeve shirt) on Tuesday Se 29 which is our training night. Cadets who do not yet have a uniform are authorized to wear an orange shirt if they wish to do so.

Participation is voluntary and is not a requirement to participate.

For more information about the reason for wearing Orange and what is represents, there are some excellent resources at these links National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Canada.ca

Orange Shirt Society – Every Child Matters