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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: A Time to Listen, Learn and Reflect

September 30, 2026

Today marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, and to remember the children who did not return home.

It is also Orange Shirt Day, a day that reminds us that every child matters and that the impacts of residential schools continue to be felt by individuals, families and communities today.

At the Calgary Drop-In Centre, this day is an opportunity for us to pause and reflect on what truth and reconciliation mean within our own community and in the work we do every day. We work alongside people from many backgrounds and life experiences, and we know that homelessness is connected to many of the broader systems, experiences and inequities that shape people’s lives.

Reconciliation asks us to listen, to learn and to approach these conversations with humility and respect. It asks us to acknowledge the truth of our shared history while considering how we can contribute to a more respectful and inclusive future.

Importantly, reconciliation is not something that happens on one day. It is an ongoing journey. It is reflected in how we listen to one another, how we build relationships, how we understand the experiences of others and how we show up in our communities.

As part of our commitment to learning and reflection, the DI hosted a Truth & Reconciliation Healing Circle with Elder Dakota Eagle Woman on September 29 for Drop-In Centre shelter guests. This gathering provided an opportunity for guests to come together, listen and reflect in advance of September 30.

I encourage each of us to take some time this September 30 to learn something new, listen to Indigenous voices and reflect on what reconciliation means to you. Whether that means attending an event, reading the words of a Survivor, having a conversation or simply taking a moment to reflect, every step matters.

Truth comes first. Reconciliation asks us what we will do with what we learn.

Calgary Events for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to remember the children who never made it home from residential schools, honour the strength of Survivors, and acknowledge the ongoing ripple of intergenerational trauma.

As we approach September 30, there are many opportunities in Calgary to learn, reflect, witness, and support this important journey.

Click here to learn more about local events and ways to participate.