September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. This is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the painful legacy of residential schools and honour the children who never came home, as well as the survivors, families and communities affected.
The day, also known as ‘Orange Shirt Day’, was inspired by residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad’s story when her orange shirt, bought for her by her Grandma, was taken away on her first day at residential school. Every year, Orange Shirt Day reminds us that ‘Every Child Matters’ and encourages us to wear orange as a visible act of remembrance and solidarity.
We encourage all members to recognize, reflect and remember on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, it is an opportunity to come together and support Indigenous peoples in the spirit of reconciliation. To capture the day across the region, we invite you to send your pictures of attending Sept. 30 events, or wearing your orange shirt to goertzb@psac-afpc.com or when posting to social media (Facebook, Instagram & X) remember to tag @psacprairies. Please remember to provide a short description of the event and location.
PSAC is committed to work on true reconciliation with the Indigenous peoples of Canada.
As Justice Murray Sinclair said, “Reconciliation is not an Aboriginal problem – it is a Canadian problem. It involves all of us.”
A New Journey Toward Truth and Reconciliation
We also encourage you to take part in the course, Walking in Our Truth Together, developed by PSAC in collaboration with Canadian Geographic. This 10-module course explores key issues and perspectives on reconciliation, offering a meaningful way to deepen your understanding and take steps forward. It is free and available to all PSAC members.
In solidarity,
Janette Husak
Prairies Regional Council Indigenous Peoples’ Representative
National Indigenous Peoples’ Circle Representative
Craig Adolphe
Prairies National Indigenous Peoples’s Circle Representative
Marianne Hladun
Regional Executive Vice-President, Prairies
Public Service Alliance of Canada