Sept. 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It began as Orange Shirt Day in British Columbia in 2013 and has grown into a nationwide occasion to honour residential school survivors, their families and children who never returned home. The day was established in response to a call to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Here are some local events: The Healing of the Seven Generations Remember Me Walk The Healing of the Seven Generations will hold this sixth annual walk to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The walk honours Indigenous children and recognizes the long-lasting harm of the residential school system. The walk will begin at 10 a.m. at 300 Frederick Street in Kitchener and end at Victoria Park. The walk will include an unveiling for the new Grand River Transit bus wrap designed by Kevin George. After the walk, a sacred fire will be held at Crow Shield Lodge. Woodland Cultural Centre The Woodland Cultural Centre in Brantford is hosting guest speakers, special film screenings and tours of the former Mohawk Institute. The Mohawk Institute was Canada’s longest continuously-running residential school and was transformed into a historic site and education resource in 2025. Events begin at 9 a.m. and runs until 4:30 p.m. at 184 Mohawk Street. The day also includes an Indigenous artisan, food and drink market, a community mural installation and dedicated survivor space. University of Waterloo The University of Waterloo will be hosting ceremonies at the B.C. Matthews Hall Green starting with a sunrise ceremony at 7 a.m. After that, there will be a commitment polish ceremony at 10 a.m., followed by National Day for Truth and Reconciliation remarks and a walk around Ring Road. The day ends with closing remarks, drumming and Round Dance at 12 p.m. The Office of Indigenous Relations also offers resources for further learning. University of Guelph The University of Guelph is hosting a day of reflection starting with a walk from Circle Mound to Branion Plaza at 9:30 a.m. There will also be a special event called Sewehia:rak, We Remember at Johnston Hall from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. Participants will be asked to research the history of someone who attended a residential school. Guelph Museum An after-school event will be held at the Guelph Museum on Norfolk Street. From 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., children, youth and their families will be guided through land-based and Indigenous teachings, including a sacred fire and raptor demonstration.
