How to Participate in National Day for Truth & Reconciliation in Toronto

On September 30, Toronto recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It’s a day for reflection and is a direct result of Call to Action 80 of the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission 94 calls to action.

We've curated links to resources from the community on suggested public events and activities to participate in, listen and learn, plus what you need to know about closures in Toronto.

Public events & activities

On September 30th, the Toronto Council Fire Native Indigenous Centre will be holding an Indigenous Legacy Gathering in Nathan Phillips Square, where a new Toronto sign has been designed by Indigenous artist Joseph Segaj.

Also on September 30th, Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund present a panel discussion at 1 p.m. on Indigenous Perspectives on the Pope’s Apology.

The Royal Conservatory is offering free tickets to Commemorate Truth & Reconciliation: Tomson Highway, Rebecca Cuddy, Sarain Fox, and more, which will honour the lives of Indigenous Peoples. This event will take place at Koerner Hall on September 30, starting at 8:00 p.m.

According to Destination Indigenous, Indigenous merchandise often tells a story. Traditional craftsmanship is usually passed down through Oral Traditions, which are reflected in authentic Indigenous products. Learn more at BuyAuthentic.ca. Or, explore Indigenous arts through the City of Toronto’s ArtworxTO program.

Find more ways to participate, learn and reflect in the City of Toronto on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

Orange Shirt Day

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was formerly known as Orange Shirt Day to honour “Phyllis’ story” (established in 2013). If you are shopping for a new orange shirt to commemorate this day, buy from an Indigenous artist or company that supports Indigenous causes or directly from the Orange Shirt Society.

The Indigenous Arts Festival is held in June at Fort York National Historic Site and showcases Indigenous visual arts, music, dance and storytelling

Resources

What’s open on September 30

While it is not a statutory holiday in Ontario, there are some closures to be aware of if you’re visiting the city. All federally regulated businesses including private sectors like banks and Crown corporations, as well as public sectors like Parliament and public services, will be closed.

Popular tourist attractions like the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario will be open.

Malls and grocery stores will also be open.