The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, often referred to as Orange Shirt Day, takes place on September 30. It serves as a crucial platform to engage in meaningful conversations regarding the enduring impact of Residential Schools and the lasting legacy they've left.
Here at the YMCA, we connect people through diverse and shared experiences. As a trusted charity, YMCA Calgary helps create spaces and communities that are welcoming and inspiring. We are grateful for the opportunity to work, learn, and play with Indigenous children, youth, and families through various programs that promote cultural identity, leadership, and recreation.
As we reflect on the last year in our Truth and Reconciliation journey, and look to the year ahead, we encourage you to take time to reflect in your own journey and learn more about Truth and Reconciliation. Whether it’s attending events, reading books by Indigenous authors, or whatever else your journey may look like, this is an important day of reflection.
- Learn about Residential School History - NCTR
- Truth and Reconciliation Resources | Calgary Public Library
- Download the Calgary Foundation’s Indigenous Ally Toolkit
- Learn more about YMCA Calgary’s Indigenous Department
- Purchase an Orange Shirt ($10 from every shirt sold is donated to the Orange Shirt Society)
Check out these events happening in Treaty 7 this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:
Attend the Annual Pokaiks - The Children's Commemorative Walk and Gathering, led by the CIF Reconciliation Society.
o September 30
o 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
o Walk begins at Eau Claire Park and ends at Contemporary Calgary with an indoor eventAttend the screening of Bones of Crows at the Calgary Central Library
o September 29
o 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM- Visit the Speak Up! exhibition at Studio Bell with free admission
o September 30
o 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM - Take part in National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Arts Commons – Gallery Tours & Artist Talks, Indigenous Makers Market, and Elder Story Project
o September 30
o 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM - Watch Getting Under the Myth of Canadian History, a presentation by Michelle Good at the University of Calgary
o September 30
o 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
"I am very glad Truth and Reconciliation has been launched in my lifetime. I have long been convinced of the harm and injustice done to Indigenous people, and having the truth spelled out and recognized is a huge first step. We've still got a long way to go for meaningful reconciliation, but it is encouraging to see it start."
"For me, Truth and Reconciliation can be overwhelming and it can feel like I am not doing enough, but I know that every step counts and I am in a position of privilege to continue on with this journey. Taking the time to reflect and listen to Indigenous voices is so important, and we have such a long way to go but it has been an honour to learn more about the experiences of Indigenous peoples and their cultures."
In the spirit of reconciliation, YMCA Calgary acknowledges that it is situated on the traditional lands of the Treaty 7 First Nations of the Siksika, Piikani, Kainai, Tsuut’ina, and the three Stoney Nations, that comprise of the Chiniki, Goodstoney, and Bears Paw. Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, and all those who call this beautiful area home. We honour and respect the inherent cultural respect and relationship that all nations have with Mother Earth.