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Orange Shirt Day

On Orange Shirt Day, we remember and honour the Indigenous children who were sent to residential schools - let's stand together for reconciliation.

Wednesday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 30

OBSERVED INCanada

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYSocial Justice

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On September 30, let's come together to honor and remember those who were impacted by the residential school system on Orange Shirt Day. This day was first observed in 2013 in British Columbia, Canada, as a way to recognize the trauma and injustice faced by Indigenous children who were forced to attend residential schools. The orange shirt serves as a powerful symbol of solidarity and hope for healing and reconciliation. Let's wear our orange shirts with pride and continue to educate ourselves on this important part of history.

TIMELINE

Orange Shirt Day Timeline

Residential Schools Era

Canada saw the establishment and operation of residential schools, an initiative to assimilate Indigenous children into the European-Canadian society, likewise eroding their language, culture and identities.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Canada established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to document the history and impact of the residential school system, promoting healing and reconciliation efforts.

First Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day was first officially recognized in British Columbia as a day to honor the Indigenous victims of the residential school system.

TRC Final Report

The TRC issued its final report cementing orange shirt day as a key component of national reconciliation efforts by acknowledging the traumatic legacy of residential schools.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

The Government of Canada announced September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, encompassing the importance of Orange Shirt Day nationwide.

Continued Observance

People across Canada and increasingly globally recognize Orange Shirt Day, contributing towards education and awareness on the impact of residential schools, fostering dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Orange Shirt Day

Wear an orange shirt

The simplest way to celebrate Orange Shirt Day is to wear an orange shirt. This color symbolizes the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities and wearing it shows your support for reconciliation and healing.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself

Take the time to learn about the history and significance of Orange Shirt Day. Educate yourself on the impact of residential schools and the ongoing effects on Indigenous communities in Canada.

ATTEND

Attend a community event

Many communities hold events and ceremonies to commemorate Orange Shirt Day. Attend one of these events to show your support and gain a deeper understanding of the day's significance.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to share information and raise awareness about Orange Shirt Day. This can help educate others and encourage them to participate in the day's events and activities.

MAKE

Make a donation

Consider making a donation to an organization that supports Indigenous communities and promotes reconciliation. This is a tangible way to show your support for Orange Shirt Day and contribute to positive change.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Orange Shirt Day is Important

It honors survivors and their resilience

Orange Shirt Day is a way to pay tribute to the survivors of residential schools and honor their strength and resilience. By wearing orange, we are showing our support for those who have been impacted by this dark chapter in Canadian history and recognizing their ongoing journey towards healing and reconciliation.

It raises awareness about the residential school system

Orange Shirt Day is a day dedicated to honoring the survivors of the residential school system in Canada. It's an opportunity to educate people about the traumatic experiences Indigenous children faced in these schools and the intergenerational impacts it has had on their families and communities.

It promotes reconciliation

By acknowledging and remembering the harm caused by the residential school system, Orange Shirt Day can help promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. It's a step towards healing and building stronger relationships based on understanding and mutual respect.

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