Surrey schools mark Truth & Reconciliation Day with events, films, and celebrations, reflecting on residential schools and Indigenous resilience.
Surrey Schools Reflect on Truth and Reconciliation
As September 30 approaches, Surrey schools are preparing to mark Truth and Reconciliation Day, a time to honour residential school survivors and remember the children who never returned home. Known also as Orange Shirt Day, it offers Canadians a chance to pause, reflect, and learn from a difficult chapter in the nation’s history.
Lyn Daniels, director of instruction with Surrey Schools’ Indigenous Learning department, emphasizes the importance of the day. “It’s a real opportunity to learn the truth about Canada’s history with Indigenous peoples,” she said. “And we must speak for the children who never came home—often, there is no one else to do so.”
Schools Organize Learning and Cultural Events
Many schools in Surrey are hosting activities in the lead-up to the day, focusing not just on remembering the tragic history but also celebrating Indigenous culture and community achievements.
Teachers supporting Indigenous students have arranged a screening of Our Grandmother the Inlet by Kayah George, a filmmaker from Tsleil-Waututh and Tulalip. Following the film, George will reflect on her connection to water, land, culture, and the healing power of storytelling.
Daniels notes the importance of balance: “We hear from Indigenous students that hearing only about trauma can be overwhelming. So, while we honour survivors and lost children, we also celebrate the brilliance within our community.”
Celebrating Indigenous Leaders
This year, the community highlights the accomplishments of Steven Point, former B.C. lieutenant governor and member of the Coast Salish Nation. Point’s impressive legacy includes serving as chief of the Skowkale First Nation, a provincial court judge, and the first Indigenous chancellor of the University of British Columbia. Recently, he was invested into the Order of Canada for his contributions to education and Indigenous communities.
The Story Behind Orange Shirt Day
Orange Shirt Day originated from Phyllis Webstad’s personal experience at St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. At six years old, her orange shirt—gifted by her grandmother—was taken from her on her first day. Years later, Webstad’s story inspired a national movement symbolizing reconciliation and the message “Every Child Matters.”
Community Events Across Surrey
The city will host multiple events to mark the day. The fifth annual Orange Shirt Day celebration takes place on Sept. 29 at Holland Park in Whalley, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., featuring drumming, dancing, and cultural sharing.
On Sept. 30, Semiahmoo First Nation leads a Walk for Truth and Reconciliation in White Rock, beginning at 11 a.m. at Grand Chief Bernard Robert Charles Memorial Plaza. The provincial government recently legislated Sept. 30 as a statutory holiday, ensuring that all British Columbians can take part in this important day of remembrance.
A Day to Reflect and Honour
Truth and Reconciliation Day in Surrey is more than a remembrance of past wrongs—it’s a chance to listen, learn, and celebrate the resilience and brilliance of Indigenous communities. Through films, walks, and cultural events, schools and communities are creating spaces to honour survivors, speak for the children lost, and inspire hope for the future.
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