National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30, the City of Prince Albert encourages everyone to wear an orange shirt in honour of the children who survived the residential school system in Canada and to remember those who never returned home.
September 30 is also an opportunity for our community to come together in the spirit of truth and reconciliation, to reflect on the ongoing impacts of residential schools, and to create a better future for generations to come.
Orange shirts serve as a reminder of the harm the residential school system caused to children, families and communities, while affirming the message that Every Child Matters.
Orange shirts can be purchased at the Prince Albert Tourism Centre, with sales being made on behalf of the Indian and Métis Friendship Centre. The shirt design was created by Ailah Carpenter.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Events
Gathering Knowledge From the Four Directions
The Prince Albert Indian & Métis Friendship Centre will be hosting ceremonies and traditional teachings at the Cultural and Ceremonial Grounds at Little Red River Park from September 27-30. Community members are encouraged to attend and participate.
For additional information about the ceremonies, including event times and details, please visit the Prince Albert Indian & Métis Friendship Centre Facebook page.
PAGC National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Event: The Prince Albert Grand Council will host an event on September 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Urban Services Centre. Lunch will be provided, and guest speakers will be announced.
Prince Albert Historical Museum: Free admission from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on September 30.
*Please note the Printmaking Workshop with Ailah Carpenter provided by the Mann Art Gallery and Prince Albert Historical Museum is full.
Orange Shirt Day Stencil: Organizations and businesses can borrow the Orange Shirt Day stencil to use on windows or sidewalks. Please call the Margo Fournier Arts Centre at (306) 953-4811 to book the stencil.
For complete event details, visit paevents.ca.
About Orange Shirt Day
Orange Shirt Day honours the legacy of the St. Joseph Mission Residential School commemoration held in Williams Lake in the spring of 2013. It originated from the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at the residential school. Her story has become a powerful symbol of the experiences of residential school survivors and the message that Every Child Matters.
September 30 provides an opportunity for people across Canada to learn about and reflect on the history and ongoing impacts of residential schools and to continue conversations about truth and reconciliation.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation became a federal statutory holiday in 2021 in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.
Since September 30, 2021, the City of Prince Albert has formally recognized the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a paid holiday for City employees. City Hall will be closed, and some City facilities may have restricted hours.
City Transit will operate on September 30.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Kiley Bear (she/her)
Chair, Truth & Reconciliation Employee Working Group
P: 306.953.4367
