We observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. This day is dedicated to honouring the survivors of residential schools and their families, as well as acknowledging the lasting impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities across Canada.
To mark the day, City Hall and other civic buildings will lower flags to half-mast. City Hall and Leigh Square will also be lit orange in the evening.
Film Screening of Laxwesa Wa: Strength of the River
Indigenous Educational Resources
We encourage local residents and families to learn and reflect on the history of Indigenous people in Canada. There is much work to do to address and repair the intergenerational trauma caused by the treatment of Indigenous peoples in Canada, including but not limited to, the residential school system. Educating yourself is one way we can all build toward reconciliation.
- To recognize National Truth and Reconciliation Day, FVRL has launched a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Contest. 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.
- Explore the Fraser Valley Regional Library reading lists for National Day for Truth & Reconciliation: Adults Reading List & Kids Reading List
- Learn about and view resources from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, a place of learning and dialogue about residential schools.
- Read about the first stage of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada about residential schools that concluded in 2015.
- Read about the history of the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem First Nation) in this area.
- Visit the National Indigenous History Month webpage for a variety of resources and information on National Indigenous History Month (June), which recognizes the history, heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in Canada.
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada - Education
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada - Exhibits
- Orange Shirt Society
- 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-hr crisis line 1-866-925-4419.
We honour and thank the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem) First Nation as our community partners of which we continue to learn from and work with, to grow and make both our communities better, on their traditional territory.