16 September, 2026

Observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Two rusty angular benches face each other by a paved path in a park at sunset, near tall grasses and a lake on the horizon, artful seating.

On September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we reflect on the enduring impact of former residential schools, and we honour survivors, the children who did not return home, and their families and communities.  

At Trans Canada Trail, we reaffirm our year-round – and ongoing – commitment to Indigenous reconciliation. We’re committed to developing meaningful, respectful relationships with Indigenous Peoples and communities. This includes actively listening to and learning from Indigenous voices, supporting initiatives that celebrate and integrate Indigenous cultures and heritage along the Trans Canada Trail and beyond, and fostering meaningful dialogue and engagement — and encouraging and supporting our Trail partners to do the same. Read more about our Commitment to Indigenous Reconciliation and our annual Report on Truth and Reconciliation here. We extend our sincere appreciation to our Indigenous Advisory Committee for its guidance and advice to Trans Canada Trail staff as it relates to Trans Canada Trail’s Indigenous programs and initiatives. 

Below you will find a list of recommended resources and events from across Canada. This list is not exhaustive, and we encourage you to find opportunities in your community.  

Close-up of a woodworker carving a wooden face with a chisel, shaping features on a mask-like sculpture.

Photo credit: Daniel Baylis | danielbaylis.ca

Suggested resources and events 

Interactive map and learning resources 

Native-land.ca map 

Beyond 94 interactive resource from CBC 

Indigenous Canada course from University of Alberta (free; online) 

Unrooted podcast from the Indigenous Foundation 

Indigenous Cities from the National Arts Centre 

Walking Alongside from McGill University  

Indigenous Voices from Environment and Climate Canada 

Métis Memories of Residential Schools from the Rupertsland Institute 

Articles and videos about Orange Shirt Day and residential schools 

Article from CBC Kids 

Indigenous words colouring pages from the National Arts Centre 

Video from Tribal Trade 

Videos from Orange Shirt Society  

Playlist from National Film Board 

Phyllis’ Story from Orange Shirt Society 

Shoal Lake 40 Freedom Road 

Stolen Children – survivors speak out video from CBC 

A Story of Sports and Survival from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission 

Virtual tour of former Mohawk Institute Residential School from Woodland Cultural Centre 

Legal Timeline of Indigenous Rights from Mikana 

The Decolonial Toolbox from Mikana 

Events for the National Week of Truth & Reconciliation from the National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation 

Events and webinars from the National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation 

Check back here later in September for a listing of events across Canada, or research Truth & Reconciliation Day events in your community.

Feature photo credit: Brook McIlroy