Port Coquitlam will observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Tuesday, September 30 as a time to reflect on the tragic legacy of residential schools and to honour First Nations, Inuit, and Métis residential school survivors, their families, and their communities.
To mark the day, City Hall and other civic buildings will fly the orange flag and lower flags to half-mast. City Hall and Leigh Square will also be lit orange in the evening.
The City will recognize September 30 as a statutory holiday. All civic facilities will be closed, with the exception of the Port Coquitlam Community Centre and Hyde Creek Recreation Centre, which will operate under reduced statutory holiday hours.
Opportunities for Residents to Reflect and Learn
Leading up to September 30, the City is offering opportunities for learning, reflection, and community connection:
- Film Screening: Spirit Game – Pride of a Nation
On Saturday, September 27 at 2pm, the Gathering Place will host a screening of Spirit Game: Pride of a Nation. This film explores the Indigenous origins and cultural significance of lacrosse and highlights the resilience and pride of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Nation. Seating is limited — please register in advance at portcoquitlam.ca/register. - Terry Fox Library
The Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL) is launching a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation contest on September 1, where participants can win a copy of 52 Ways to Reconcile: How to Walk With Indigenous People on the Path to Healing by David A. Robertson.- Contest details: fvrl.bc.ca/ndtr-contest
- About the book: 52 Ways to Reconcile
Residents can also explore two specially curated booklists:
In addition, Terry Fox Library will feature a book display on the Power Wall throughout September, along with Indigenous-themed puzzles available at the puzzle table.
- Port Coquitlam’s Historical Continuum
Take a self-guided interpretive walk along the Traboulay PoCo Trail from Lions Park to Gates Park. Interpretive panels along the Coquitlam River highlight the natural and cultural history of Port Coquitlam, featuring stories and heritage of the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem) First Nation. This free, family-friendly experience was developed in partnership with PoCo Heritage, the Kwikwetlem First Nation, and the City of Port Coquitlam.
Orange Shirt Day
Coinciding with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is Orange Shirt Day, which reminds us that Every Child Matters. Residents are encouraged to wear orange on September 30 to:
- recognize the residential school experience,
- honour the healing journeys of survivors and their families, and
- commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation.
Resources for Learning
Residents are encouraged to continue their learning journey through the following:
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation – resources and archives on residential schools
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – reports and Calls to Action
- History of the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem First Nation)
- Story of Orange Shirt Day
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society Emergency Crisis Line is available 24/7 for anyone who may need counselling or support. Call 1-800-721-0066 or the 24-hour crisis line at 1-866-925-4419.
Stay Informed
Details about City facility hours and closures will be available at portcoquitlam.ca and on the City’s social media channels.
For more information on reconciliation resources and activities, visit portcoquitlam.ca/reconciliation.
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