Canada's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, known informally as Orange Shirt Day, is Sept. 30.
There are many ways to engage, educate, and reflect on the day, including commemorating with your kids, but you can also join your community in acknowledging Truth and Reconciliation.
Here are several gatherings, marches and other events happening in Vancouver recognizing the important day.
Indigenous Movie Night
Vancouver Black Library is hosting an event to highlight Indigenous books and films and to educate on Turtle Island’s history of colonialism and the impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples. Indigenous attendees will receive a smal gift too.
When: Sept. 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Vancouver Black Library - 72-268 Keefer St
Truth and Reconciliation Day
This gathering will bring together Musqueam and Vancouver communities to commemorate Orange Shirt Day and the second annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Day. Musqueam will also host a special ceremony that will mark the new name of Trutch Street.
When: Sept. 30, 1 p.m.
Where: Musqueam Community Centre - 6735 Salish Dr
National Truth and Reconciliation Day Community Walk
This gathering is a walk in solidarity with Indigenous peoples that starts at the Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House and ends at a community Orange Shirt Day event at Trout Lake.
When: Sept. 30, noon
Where: Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House - 800 E Broadway
Intergenerational March
This march aims to educate participants and support Indigenous peoples. Those attending will hear from elders and members of the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, see a performance from Tastsu Stalqya (Coastal Wolf Pack), and purchase food, t-shirts, and Orange Shirt Day books.
When: Sept. 20, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Where: 1985 Learners' Walk
Orange Shirt Day: Honouring the Children
There will be a free barbeque, bouncy castles, crafts and giveaways, and rap battles to honour Indigenous peoples and survivors of residential schools. The dress code is an orange shirt.
When: Sept. 30, noon
Where: Oppenheimer Park - 400 Powell St
Orange Shirt Day at Templeton Pool Welcome Garden
This gathering will see a performance by an Indigenous women drum group, storytelling by elders, an Indigenous Plant Walk, and tea with snacks.
When: Sept. 30, 2 p.m.
Where: 700 Templeton Dr
Over the Rainbow
This concert will commemorate National Truth and Reconciliation Day with performances by Aboriginal and Canadian Chinese artists together.
When: Sept. 30, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Where: 7373 MacPherson Ave, Burnaby
Orange Shirt Day - Grandview
This gathering starts with a walk, meeting either outside of the Vancouver Aboriginal Community Policing Centre or Strathcona Community Centre, to Grandview Park. There, the event opens with a ceremony and will feature a drum circle, crafting, sharing, and food.
When: Sept. 30, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Meet at 1719 Franklin St or 601 Keefer St; walk to Grandview Park - 1657 Charles St
Orange Shirt Day - Trout Lake
This gathering will honour those who survived residential school and remember those who didn't, raising awareness about the lasting impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples.
When: Sept. 30, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Trout Lake Community Centre - 3360 Victoria Dr
Orange Shirt Day - Museum of Vancouver
The museum will be offering complimentary admission to anyone wearing an orange shirt and will accept donations on behalf of the Indian Residential School Survivors Society to recognize the impact of residential schools.
When: Sept. 30, 10 a.m.
Where: Museum of Vancouver - 1100 Chestnut St