September 30 is recognized as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, coinciding with Orange Shirt Day. It is a time to reflect on the history and lasting impact of the residential school system, honour the resilience of Indigenous Peoples and survivors, and remember the children who never returned home.
The City of Surrey is encouraging residents to meaningfully participate in reflection, education, and community-led events.
Ways to observe the day include:
- September 13 and 20: Open House: Orange Shirts at Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House, exploring the meaning of “Every Child Matters.”
- September 15: Reconciliation Talking Circle at Surrey Libraries’ City Centre Branch, with discussion of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and a smudging ceremony.
- September 20: Harvest Fair at Historic Stewart Farm and Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House, with drumming, cultural sharing, and connection to the land.
- September 29: Orange Shirt Day at Holland Park hosted by Surrey Urban Indigenous Leadership Committee, Skookum Surrey, and the Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association, featuring drumming, dancing, and storytelling.
- September 30: Wear an orange shirt, and visit Surrey Civic Plaza where City Hall will be illuminated in orange.
Residents can also explore Surrey’s Indigenous Public Art Collection, visit the Museum of Surrey’s Indigenous Hall created in partnership with Semiahmoo, Kwantlen, and Katzie First Nations, and learn through book recommendations from Surrey Libraries and films from the National Film Board.
The City also encourages residents to review the Surrey Urban Indigenous Strategy, read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s reports and 94 Calls to Action, and reflect on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
