Honouring survivors and upcoming events
September 30 is Skwáyel tl’a úlanch stl’pi’w̓en (Orange Shirt Day) and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
On this day, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) honours the survivors of residential and day schools, their families and all those impacted by the Indian Residential School system. We remember the children who didn’t make it home.
Skwáyel tl’a úlanch stl’pi’w̓en began as a grassroots initiative in 2013 to raise awareness of the lasting effects of residential schools and reaffirm that every child matters. It has grown into a nationwide movement of reflection and remembrance.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in 2021 in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The statutory holiday was implemented to recognize survivors while ensuring the history and legacy of residential schools are publicly remembered.
Today and every day, we honour our Elders, Survivors and Community.
To learn more about Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, click here.
Upcoming events and activities
Orange Shirt Day gathering
- Tuesday, September 29
- North Vancouver RCMP detachment (147 East 14th Street, North Vancouver)
- 11 am
Raising the Survivors’ flag
- Tuesday, September 29
- West Vancouver Municipal Hall (750 17th Street, West Vancouver)
- 12 pm
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw members will share words of knowledge and experience as we gather to reflect on the significance of this day.
Orange Shirt Day Pin Beading Workshop
- Wednesday, September 30
- Capilano Field
- 12 pm – 4 pm
Facilitated by Jessica Natraoro. No registration required.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at the SLCC
- Wednesday, September 30
- Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Líl̓wat7úl Cultural Centre
- 10 am – 5 pm
Experience a full day of listening, learning and reflection through immersive experiences. Free admission.
Yúusnew̓as Orange Shirt Day March and Ceremony
- Wednesday, September 30
- Squamish
- 12 – 4:30 pm
The march will begin at the corner of Winnipeg Street & Cleveland Avenue at 12 pm.
The ceremony will be hosted at O’Siyam Pavilion from 1:30 – 4:30 pm.
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is offering several events and workshops throughout September and October. For more information, click here.