National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Today, September 30th, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.

The Helix Foundation is reflecting on the significance of this day, and the generational impact of the residential school system on Indigenous children and their families. On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we honour residential school survivors and their loved ones, as well as those who never returned home. Today, we’re sharing resources, events, and initiatives to support Indigenous peoples, including children and youth.

Educational resources:

• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Government of Canada
• Indian Residential School Records Project
• Residential Schools in Canada – The Canadian Encyclopedia

Mental health resources for survivors and their families:

• Indian Residential School Survivors Society
• Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program

Toronto events to explore, educate and reflect:

• Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Art Gallery of Ontario)
  • “September 30 is both Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Both are days to pause in remembrance of the children lost and survivors of the residential school system, in addition to lasting trauma inflicted on Indigenous families and communities. The AGO is recognizing this day, along with the effects of residential schools, through continued learning guided by Indigenous art and artists.”

• Indigenous Legacy Gathering (Nathan Phillips Square)
  • “Join us for the 9th Annual Indigenous Legacy Gathering (ILG), a meaningful celebration of culture and community held at Nathan Phillips Square. Organized by Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre, the Gathering honours residential school survivors, their families, and communities, while uplifting the diverse traditions of Indigenous Peoples through ceremony, language, artistry, and song.”

• First Nation Art Garden (Toronto Zoo)
  • “While your Toronto Zoo’s Indigenous Relations team takes the day to quietly reflect, please join us in recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by filling our Front Entrance bridge with orange ribbons. All are welcome to visit the Zoo on September 30th during operating hours to reflect, learn in our First Nation Art Garden (outside Americas Pavilion), and explore!”

Consult your local community for additional events and gatherings!

Initiatives supporting Indigenous children and youth:

The Helix Foundation proudly supports The Indigenous Support Project (TISP) and Onakawana Education Fund.

• Based in Toronto, The Indigenous Support Project is a charitable community organization focused on providing resources and cultural education to Indigenous peoples. Learn more about TISP’s Winter Solstice Camp, supporting Indigenous youth and their families, in Scarborough.
• Onakawana Education Fund aims to provide a cost-free opportunity for Indigenous youth to experience camp life from a uniquely traditional perspective. This is accomplished by focusing on three key pillars. Learn more about Onakawana Education Fund here.