Taking place on September 30 each year, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is about committing to the processes of truth and justice through education. It provides an important opportunity for all to reflect on the painful history residential schools and their ongoing impact for Indigenous communities today.

Support is available for former residential school students, who can call 1 866 925-4419 for referral services and information on other health supports. Indigenous Peoples across Canada can also contact the Hope for Wellness help line 24/7 at 1855 242-3310 for counselling and crisis support.

About Orange Shirt Day 

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coincides with Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day raising awareness through the message “Every Child Matters.” The symbol of the orange shirt originates from the story of community leader and former residential school student Phyllis Webstad. On her first day at the school, aged six, a new orange shirt that had been given to her by her grandmother was taken from her.

The orange shirt has become a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations. Wearing an orange shirt on September 30 is an acknowledgement of the pains of residential school and a contribution to creating a future where indigenous communities are included and honoured.

Reflection and learning

Pacific Blue Cross employees are offered time off on this day, to dedicate to personal reflection and to furthering their learning journeys. This day also provides an opportunity to explore the rich and diverse histories and cultures of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.

As part of our commitment to education and inclusion, we offer a free and easily accessible eLearning module for employers, providers and the public, which was created in partnership with the First Nations Health Authority. This module aims to promote deeper understanding of the history of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and how this impacts our world today. This eLearning is a key component of all Pacific Blue Cross staff onboarding training. We urge our plan sponsors to engage with these learnings, so that together we can better honour Indigenous values and cultures across our communities and workplaces.

Across Canada, you can find public activities and gatherings designed to commemorate the residential school experience, to witness and honour the healing journey of survivors and their families, and to commit to ongoing reconciliation. A list of events in British Columbia can be found here.

The Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) will be broadcasting special education programs on September 30, including exclusive documentaries, deep discussions, and performances dedicated to the enduring spirit and stories of Indigenous Peoples.

Together, we can build a more equitable future for all. Pacific Blue Cross remains committed to building partnerships with Indigenous Peoples to inform our work and give back to the community.

You can read our statement on Truth and Reconciliation for more information about our commitment.