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Marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Mississauga

Press Release

The day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities.
The statutory holiday came into effect in 2021 to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s call to action number 80 by creating a statutory holiday which seeks to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis Survivors and their families and communities.

Throughout September, Mississauga joins the rest of Canada to commemorate the history and continuing impacts of this tragedy in our journey for reconciliation. It is a time of education, reflection and remembrance.

Orange Shirt Day

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coincides with Orange Shirt Day.

Created in 2013 by Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor, Orange Shirt Day is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the impact of residential schools on Indigenous Communities, honour Survivors and continue learning as we work toward reconciliation.

Wear an orange shirt on September 30 and be a part of the national conversation using the hashtag #EveryChildMatters.

Learn, reflect and engage at Mississauga Celebration Square

On Monday, September 30, the digital screens at Mississauga Celebration Square will display a series of short films and messages of encouragement for visitors to learn, reflect and engage in reconciliation, highlighting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and the City’s commitment to reconciliation.

Bradley Museum Truth and Reconciliation tour

From September 28 through September 30, join a guided tour of Bradley House and grounds and learn about the history of Indigenous Peoples in Mississauga. Staff will also share what the City of Mississauga is doing today to further the process of reconciliation and the 94 Calls to Action. Tours will run every half-hour between noon and 3 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot.

Reserve your spot

UTM All-Nations Powwow

The U of T Mississauga Indigenous Centre welcomes everyone to their All-Nations Powwow on September 28, 2024. Experiencing a Powwow emphasizes the importance of relationship-building while providing opportunities to learn more about Indigenous culture and knowledge.

Learn more about this activity

Community Event – Fourth Annual Gathering and Healing Ceremony

Join Eagle Spirits of the Great Waters on September 28 and 29 from 10am to 4pm daily at this free event honouring Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This annual event marks a significant occasion for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike. Held this year on the grounds of Cawthra Secondary School, the event will feature elders sharing stories of resilience and wisdom, emphasizing the importance of healing and unity.

Learn more about this gathering .

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation reading list

This reading list honours the stories of the Survivors of residential schools and their families and communities.

Check out the complete list of recommendations

Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation flag raising

To recognize both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, the City will raise the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) flag on September 30 at Mississauga Celebration Square.

Learn more about this flag raising

Lighting the clock tower

To recognize both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, the Civic Centre clock tower will be lit orange on September 30.

Learn more about this clock tower lighting

Mississauga’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation in action

In February 2022, former Mayor Bonnie Crombie along with Members of Council and Indigenous leaders from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) raised the Every Child Matters flag to fly permanently at City Hall. The City of Mississauga was the first large municipality in Canada to permanently raise the Every Child Matters flag.

Endorsement of a policy focused on the Use of Indigenous Images/Themes in City Sports Facilities. The policy promotes a positive and inclusive experience at City sports facilities, while supporting a climate of understanding and mutual respect.

Approval of the recommendations found in the City’s Annual Reconciliation Report and Land Acknowledgement Renewal, including refreshing the City’s existing Indigenous Land Statement, which was formally adopted in 2017.

Adoption of Resolution 0207-2020 to address systemic discrimination and inequities within Mississauga, including accessibility to resources, services and supports for Black and Indigenous residents.

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