A Time for Remembrance
On September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, we remember the children who never returned home from residential schools. We honour Survivors, their families and communities, and recognize the impacts that continue across generations.
For Blood Tribe families, this history is part of our community’s life and memory. We remember the children as members of families and a community to which they will always belong. We honour Survivors and recognize the importance of language, culture and family connections for generations today and those to come.
There is no single way to observe this day. You may choose to spend time with family, gather with others, reflect privately or take time to rest. No one is expected to share their personal experiences.
Understanding the History
Residential schools separated Indigenous children from their families and communities and sought to suppress their languages, cultures and identities. Many children experienced abuse and neglect, and some never returned home. These harms continue to affect Survivors, families and generations today.
Learning this history, respecting Survivors’ accounts, and supporting Niitsipoohsin and other Indigenous languages, cultures and rights are part of the ongoing work of reconciliation.
Read the NCTR overview of residential school history.
Make Time to Learn
September 30 is an opportunity to deepen understanding and consider the responsibilities that come with that learning.
Learn about residential schools and their continuing impacts. Listen to accounts Survivors have chosen to share publicly, and respect each person’s choice about whether to tell their story.
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation — Learning resources: Explore educational materials about residential school history and its ongoing legacy.
- Orange Shirt Society — About Orange Shirt Day: Learn about the origins and meaning of Orange Shirt Day.
Take Care of Yourself and One Another
This day may bring difficult feelings and memories. Take the time and space you need, including stepping away from news or social media.
Blood Tribe Department of Health Wellness Program
The Blood Tribe Department of Health Wellness Program provides mental health and addictions counselling, cultural support, and programs for people affected by residential schools, Indian Day Schools and Day Scholar experiences.
For information about services and accessing support:
- Wellness Program: 403-737-3883
- After Hours Crisis Line: 403-894-7002
These numbers are listed in the BTDH contact directory. Contact the program for current service availability and holiday hours.
National Support
The National Residential School Crisis Line offers 24-hour support for Survivors and their families.
Call 1-866-925-4419.
More information about support.
Beyond September 30
Remembrance and the responsibility to learn continue throughout the year. Keep learning, respect community priorities and support Indigenous-led work.
Carry the truth forward through continued attention, care and action.
