Understanding the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30, 2021, marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day that coincides with Orange Shirt Day. It recognizes the tragic legacy of residential schools, the missing children, the families left behind and the survivors of these institutions.
Start your learning journey by exploring the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Learn about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the events taking place to mark the day.
Images for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Free promotional resources for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Using these images
Please note that when using or reproducing any material available below, you must not change the visuals or text.

The meaning behind the visuals
Learn more about the imagery used in our National Day for Truth and Reconciliation products.

Description of the three icons
- The eagle to represent First Nations
- The narwhal to represent Inuit
- The beaded flower to represent Métis
Among the various visual elements illustrating Indigenous cultures, the circle is at the centre, which represents being together in spirit of reconciliation. The orange colour represents truth-telling and healing. The pathway represents the road to reconciliation. First Nations, Inuit and Métis are represented in the image.
Continue learning
Begin your learning journey
Explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples through these interactive resources.
Indigenous history
Read more about Indigenous peoples, also known as Aboriginal peoples, historic contributions from the Royal Proclamation of 1763 through the world wars to today.
Reconciliation
Advancing reconciliation and renewing the relationship with Indigenous peoples is based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.
Follow the discussions online
To find out more about First Nations, Inuit and Métis-led virtual activities, please visit the official pages for National Indigenous Organizations:
Join in the conversation
- Twitter: @GCIndigenous and @GovCanNorth use the hashtags #NDTR and #EveryChildMatters
- Facebook: GCIndigenous, GovCanNorth and @GCIndigenousHealth
- Instagram: @gcindigenous use the hashtags #NDTR and #EveryChildMatters
- YouTube