Though most businesses are closed to observe the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation this September 30th and October 2nd, 2023, there will be a few special events to celebrate Indigenous culture, amplify the voice of Indigenous artists and help us all pause and reflect on the impact and painful legacy of the Canadian residential school system. Some of these events may not be suitable for young children, so please check before you go.

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation Documentary: Jordan River Anderson’s The Messenger

Celebrated Abenaki director Alanis Obomsawin tells the story of Jordan River Anderson, and how as a result of his short life, thousands of First Nations and Inuit children today receive the same standard of social, health, and education services as the rest of the Canadian population.

Date: September 27, 2023
Time: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: Woodlawn Public Library

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 

In partnership with the National Film Board of Canada, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 will mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with a special film screening on the eve of the day itself.

Date: Friday, September 29, 2023
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: In-person event at the Museum
Language: Presented in English
Cost: FREE

Truth and Reconciliation Orange Shirt Day 

A free family event to honour our indigenous community with traditional music, crafts, vendors and a kids craft corner.

Date: Friday, September 30, 2023
Time: 11:00 am- 2:00 p.m.
Location: Kismen Community Centre, Lower Sackville

Others ways to observe National Day of Truth and Reconciliation:

  • The Museum of Natural History and The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic will be open with free admission.
  • Read Out of the Depths: The experiences of Mi’kmaw children at the Indian Residential School at Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia by Isabelle Knockwood, and other memoirs by survivors.
  • Watch We Were Children (available on Amazon Prime) and Indian Horse (available on Netflix).
  • Wear an orange shirt, preferably one designed by an indigenous artist.
  • Watch Gord Downie’s Secret Path.
  • Learn about the Mi’kmaw communities whose land you live on and visit the three First Nations in Halifax Regional Municipality.
  • Visit Indigenous cultural heritage sites to learn about the traditions, culture, and resilience of your local communities.
  • Visit the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre, and Peace and Friendship Park in Halifax.
  • Have conversations with the people in your life about what reconciliation means and why it’s important.
  • Support Indigenous artists, drummers, singers, dancers, language learners and small business owners. They are helping communities heal.