Resources for Truth & Reconciliation

Reconciliation is establishing and maintaining mutually respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples of Canada. For this to happen there needs to be awareness of the past, acknowledgement of the harm done, atonement for the causes and action to change the behaviour.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30th) is an opportunity for all Canadians to take the time to learn the history of Canada's Indian Residential School System and honour the victims and survivors.

This day became a federal statutory holiday in 2021 and falls on the same day as Orange Shirt Day. Orange Shirt Day was started by survivor Phyllis Webstad in 2013 to spread awareness of all that was taken away through the residential  school system.

This guide includes resources and reading lists to help people learn more about Truth and Reconciliation including:

• Reading for Reconciliation

  • A series of print and digital book lists and reading recommendations related to Reconciliation

• The Truth and Reconciliation Commission

  • The TRC Reports and other resources from National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

• Orange Shirt Day Resources

  • Information and video about the origins of the day, book lists about Indian Residential Schools for kids and teens, and additional resources