National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
As educators, September 30 is more than a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of our responsibility to learn, reflect, and teach with intention. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation asks us to honour the children who never returned home, survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, and to recognize the ongoing impacts of these injustices.
In our classrooms, we have an important role in reconciliation. We can create spaces where truth is spoken, difficult histories are not avoided, Indigenous voices and perspectives are valued, and students develop greater understanding, empathy and respect.
Wearing orange is an important act of remembrance and solidarity, but our responsibility extends beyond September 30. Reconciliation requires continued listening, learning and action throughout the year.
What Can I Do in My Classroom?
Learn alongside your students. Explore the history and legacy of residential schools, treaties and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action in age-appropriate ways.
Centre Indigenous voices. Choose books, videos and learning materials created by First Nations, Métis and Inuit authors, educators and organizations.
Go beyond September 30. Incorporate Indigenous histories, cultures, knowledge and contemporary experiences throughout the school year.
Challenge stereotypes and racism. Create opportunities to examine misconceptions and help students understand the diversity of Indigenous peoples and communities.
Connect learning to place. Learn about the Indigenous peoples, treaties and histories connected to the land and communities where we live, learn and teach.
Move from learning to action. Ask students what reconciliation can look like in their classroom, school and community, and identify meaningful actions they can take together.
Educator Resources
ETFO Provincial - offers some resources to help facilitate learning on Indigenous Education: https://www.etfo.ca/socialjusticeunion/first-nation,-metis-and-inuit-(f…
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation - educational resources, residential school records and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action: www.nctr.ca
Orange Shirt Society - the history and meaning of Orange Shirt Day, along with educational resources: orangeshirtday.org
First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education Association of Ontario - professional learning and resources for Ontario educators: fnmieao.com/initiatives
TVDSB Indigenous Education - local learning supports, resources and guidance available through the school board. https://sites.google.com/gotvdsb.ca/tvdsb-fnmi/home
Every Child Matters on September 30 and every day.