September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, honouring the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. The day recognizes the profound and lasting impacts of the residential school system and the importance of truth in the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.

Orange Shirt Day is rooted in the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose experience helped inspire a national movement and the message that Every Child Matters. Wearing orange on September 30 has become a powerful symbol of remembrance and a commitment to ensuring the experiences and histories of Indigenous Peoples are acknowledged and carried forward.

“Reconciliation is built through the choices we make, the relationships we strengthen and our willingness to understand the experiences that continue to shape our community today,” said Mayor Jackie Clayton. “The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation reminds us that understanding our history also carries a responsibility for how we move forward together. 

Grande Prairie is home to Indigenous people, families, organizations and leaders who contribute so much to the strength and identity of our community. As a City, we have a responsibility to keep building relationships based on respect, understanding and trust. I encourage residents to spend this time listening, learning and taking part in the opportunities happening throughout our community.”

The City recognizes and appreciates the Indigenous organizations and community groups whose leadership, knowledge and work contributes to the fabric of Grande Prairie. Residents are encouraged to participate in community events being organized to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, including:

• Truth & Reconciliation: Sharing Notable Indigenous Voices
  • Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
    Location: Douglas J. Cardinal Performing Arts Centre
    Details: NWP Indigenous Services will share profiles of notable Indigenous peoples who are helping to advance this movement, locally and across Canada, using a large Indigenous Floor Map from Canadian Geographic. Register here. 
• Orange Shirt Day 5KM Walk/Run
  • Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Registration opens at 4 p.m., event begins at 5 p.m. 
    Location: Muskoseepi Park 
    Details: Hosted by the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, the event honours Survivors, remembering the children who never returned home, acknowledging  the ongoing impacts of residential schools, and continuing the work of Truth and Reconciliation. Every step is an opportunity to remember, to learn, and to move forward together.

Flags will be at half-mast on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.