September 30th marks the annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, and the families and communities who continue to be impacted by colonialism. 

This day also coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots, Indigenous-led initiative that raises awareness about the ongoing intergenerational impacts of residential schools and the message that "Every Child Matters." The orange shirt has become a symbol of the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem endured by Indigenous children for generations.

On this important day, all Canadians are encouraged to wear orange to honour the thousands of Survivors and acknowledge the enduring legacy of residential schools.

The Canada Games Council (CGC) and the Host Societies of the 2025 and 2027 Canada Games will recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by putting Indigenous businesses and communities at the centre of the conversation - creating meaningful connections where we live, work, and play.

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CANADA GAMES COUNCIL

As a hybrid organization with members across Canada, the CGC encouraged staff to select and procure orange shirts from local Indigenous-owned businesses, contributing to reconciliation awareness on an individual level. This initiative is a starting point for our organization, as we encourage others to take their own steps toward truth, reconciliation, and lasting change across Canada. 

In addition to internal discussions to deepen our understanding of this day, as part of our efforts to honour National Truth and Reconciliation Day, we are sharing the personal stories behind the orange shirts selected by some our staff, each reflecting their unique connection to a particular Indigenous community:

Kelly-Ann Paul, Ottawa, ON - President and CEO
‍“I'm grateful to have researched and ordered orange shirts for my family in recognition of the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation from Indigenous Gifts. Through this process, I discovered an Indigenous-owned business just nine minutes from our home that I didn’t know existed. Proceeds from the sale will go toward a scholarship fund supporting youth from families affected by intergenerational trauma. It’s especially significant to learn that this scholarship program is administered through Indspire, where our Treasurer and Board member, Fauna Kingdon, also serves as a Board member.”

Carly Shaw-MacLaren, Prince George, BC - Advisor, Sport & Games
‍“The shirt I chose to recognize the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation is designed by Clayton Gauthier, an artist from Prince George (traditional territory of the Lheidli T'enneh) and a member of Nak’azdli First Nation. Clayton’s work is well-known in Prince George, and I encourage everyone to explore his art and drum work through his Facebook page: Clayton Gauthier Art. You can also learn more about the artist and his orange shirt design here: Orange Shirt Artist.”

Peter Reimer, Halifax, NS - Advisor, Marketing & Communications
‍“I had the opportunity to purchase my orange shirt in person from a Mi'kmaw vendor on the Halifax waterfront. The Sipekne'katik Treaty Truckhouse is a significant space, as it fulfills a promise made in the Treaties of Peace & Friendship of 1752, finally realized just last year. The shirt I chose was designed by Aaron Googoo of Sipekne'katik First Nation.”

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ST. JOHN’S 2025 CANADA SUMMER GAMES

In preparation for the Games next year, the 2025 Host Society has partnered with First Light, which serves the urban Indigenous and non-Indigenous community alike by strengthening and celebrating Indigenous cultures and languages in the spirit of trust, respect, and friendship across Newfoundland.

Rachel Gilbert, St. John’s, NL - Assistant, People and Culture
‍“This year, the 2025 Host Society team is wearing orange shirts provided by our local Indigenous Friendship Centre, First Light, with a design that invites others to ‘ask me about my orange shirt.’ This design encourages meaningful conversations about the history behind wearing orange. It reminds us of our collective responsibility to honour the experiences of survivors while promoting awareness of the ongoing need for healing and reconciliation. Wearing an orange shirt beyond the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation emphasizes the importance of continuous support for Indigenous communities and the ongoing commitment to learning, reflection, and action towards a more just and equitable society. It helps keep the conversation alive, fostering year-round advocacy for truth and justice.”

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QUÉBEC 2027 CANADA WINTER GAMES

With their leadership team just named this year, the Host Society in Québec understands the importance of establishing collaborative relationships with local Indigenous partners from the beginning.

Miriam Bard-Dumont, Quebec City, QC - Chief Partnerships and Community Relations Officer
‍“Because of their vitality and influence, the Huron-Wendat Nation continues to play an important role in the greater Teyiatontariyih region (Québec). It is an incredibly resilient Nation, which is proud to share its culture and history with the world.

We are pleased to collaborate with the Nation for the 2027 Canada Games, with the goal of showcasing its culture and people.”

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The Canada Games Movement can continue to contribute to a future rooted in respect, understanding, and meaningful action through collaboration with Indigenous communities. Through these initiatives this year, we hope to inspire others to reflect on their own journey toward supporting Indigenous peoples across Canada. 

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Learn more

This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and stories of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Start your learning journey today: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 

Mental Health Supports Available:

Survivors of residential schools can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.

Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.