September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, an annual day of reflection to honour Indigenous communities, walk together on a path to reconciliation and healing, and deliver on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls-to-Action.

Orange Shirt Day began as a movement to recognize the experience of Phyllis Webstad, who had her orange shirt taken from her on her first day at a residential school. It has since grown into a national symbol of remembrance and a call to action to honour Survivors and acknowledge the intergenerational impacts of residential schools.

The City of Grande Prairie recognizes that reconciliation is a journey and is committed to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and ensuring that reconciliation is a key part of the City’s development. 

“On September 30, Canadians pause to honour the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. This day asks us not only to reflect on the truths of our shared history but also to carry forward a responsibility to reconciliation in our everyday lives, “ said Mayor Jackie Clayton. "On behalf of Grande Prairie Council, we are humbled to join our community in wearing orange and taking time to listen, learn and acknowledge the harm caused by residential schools. The voices of Survivors remind us that reconciliation is not symbolic – it is an ongoing process that requires respect, commitment and meaningful action. We remain committed to reconciliation and encourage all community members to take time to reflect and learn on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.”

The City is thankful for the many Indigenous organizations and community groups in Grande Prairie making a positive impact through their work and encourages residents to take part in the community events being organized to commemorate Truth and Reconciliation Day including:

• Roots of Healing- A Day for Truth and Reconciliation
  • Date: September 29
  • Time: 10 a.m.- 1 p.m.
  • Location: Grande Prairie Friendship Centre Traditional Healing Garden
  • Details: A day of reflection, learning, and healing including teachings from Elder Loretta Parenteau-English.
  • Organizer: Grande Prairie Friendship Centre
• Orange Shirt Day 5 KM Walk/ Run
  • Date: September 30
  • Time: 4 p.m. registration, 5 p.m. start
  • Location: Muskoseepi Park
  • Details: A community gathering to talk in support of truth and reconciliation.
  • Organizer: Grande Prairie Friendship Centre
• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering
  • Date: September 30
  • Time: 9:30 a.m. 
  • Location: 55 North Community Centre
  • Details: Remembering and healing the journey of Survivors and their families including a pipe ceremony, lunch, Survivor and intergenerational speakers, honor song, healing jingle dance, women singing group, tree announcement and open mic.
  • Organizer: Grande Prairie Circle of Aboriginal Services. 

Flags at all City facilities will be at half-mast on September 30.