September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. A day to honour the children lost to the residential school system and support survivors, their families, and communities. It’s a time for all Canadians to reflect on this painful legacy and take steps toward reconciliation. You can commemorate the day by attending local events, wearing orange, and exploring resources that deepen your understanding. Across the city, there are many opportunities to learn, reflect, and celebrate the rich traditions and history of Indigenous Peoples: 

• Sept. 28 from 1 p.m.-6 p.m. – The second annual All My Relations Healing Powwow will take place at the BMO Centre as a place for all nations and community members to gather, celebrate, participate, and learn about Indigenous cultures and traditions. 
• Sept. 29 from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. – Heritage Park is honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by offering a space to deepen your understanding of residential schools and the ongoing impact of intergenerational trauma on Indigenous communities. Self-identified Indigenous individuals will receive complimentary admission.  
• Sept. 29 from 6:30 p.m.-9p.m. – Attend a free screening of Bones of Crows at the Central Library. Directed by Marie Clements, this multigenerational epic follows a Cree matriarch and her family as they confront the horrors of Canada’s residential school system and fight for justice over a century.   
• Sept 30 from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. – The City of Calgary is hosting Orange Shirt Day at the Confluence Historical Site. Speakers include the Mayor, Indigenous Elders and school board representatives. A blessing from an Elder will start the event and will be followed by Indigenous dancers.  
• Sept. 30 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. – Pokaiks – The Children Commemorative Walk & Gathering. Beginning at the Peace Bridge, the CIF Reconciliation Society will lead you along the river path to Contemporary Calgary, where you’ll experience Indigenous performances, Elder storytelling, a healing ceremony, and more. 
• Sept. 30 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. – Studio Bell is offering free admission for visitors to explore the Speak Up! exhibition and listen to powerful remarks by Elder Eldon Weasel Child. 
• Sept. 30 starting at 12 p.m. Arts Commons is hosting a variety of events starting at noon, including an Indigenous Makers Market, gallery tours, and the Elders Story Project. 
• Sept. 30 from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. – Attend online or in person at The Rosza Centre for a special presentation from Cree author Michelle Good: Getting Under the Myth of Canadian History.   
• Sept. 30 from 1 p.m.-6 p.m. –All are welcome to attend the 4th annual Every Child Matters Powwow at the Bob Bahan Soccer Field (4812 14th Ave SE, Calgary). This free event will take place rain or shine under tents and features a Traditional Powwow. Bring the kids for dancing, arts and crafts, face painting, and a bouncy castle! 

Additional Resources: 

• Read the Enough for All Strategy “Iih kanii tai staiiwa“(Everything is there) 
• 94 calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. 
• Learning resources about First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada 
• Let’s Talk Poverty Podcast. Episode 20: Everything We Need Is Here with Elder Wanda First Rider 
• The Calgary Public Library’s recommended reads for Indigenous Canadian history 
• Read the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
• Learn about Land Acknowledgments from the Calgary Foundation