How to Participate in National Day for Truth & Reconciliation in Toronto

On September 30, Toronto recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It’s a day for reflection and is a direct result of Call to Action 80 of the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission 94 calls to action.

We've curated links to resources from the community on suggested public events and activities to participate in, listen and learn, plus what you need to know about closures in Toronto.

Public events & activities

On September 29 and 30, the Toronto Council Fire Native Indigenous Centre will be holding its fifth annual Indigenous Legacy Gathering in Nathan Phillips Square. This annual public event will explore Indigenous culture through music, dance, workshops and performances.

The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund will also be partnering with local media and radio stations around Canada for a panel discussion on A DAY TO LISTEN 2023.

On September 30, Toronto Zoo will have a day of special programming led by their Director of Indigenous Relations and the Turtle Island Conservation Steward.

The Royal Conservatory is hosting Commemorate Truth & Reconciliation: Andrew Balfour, Marie Gaudet, Jimmy Dick, Julian Taylor, Zoey Roy and more, to honour those affected by residential schools and offer hope for the future. This event will take place at Koerner Hall on September 29 at 8:00 p.m.; tickets start at $40.

According to Destination Indigenous, Indigenous merchandise often tells a story. Traditional craftsmanship is usually passed down through Oral Traditions, which are reflected in authentic Indigenous products. Learn more at BuyAuthentic.ca. Or, explore Indigenous arts through the City of Toronto’s ArtworxTO program.

Find more ways to participate, learn and reflect in the City of Toronto on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

Orange Shirt Day

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was formerly known as Orange Shirt Day to honour “Phyllis’ story” (established in 2013). If you are shopping for a new orange shirt to commemorate this day, buy from an Indigenous artist or company that supports Indigenous causes or directly from the Orange Shirt Society.

Elders dressed in traditional clothing at the Indigenous Arts Festival at Fort York in Toronto

The Indigenous Arts Festival is held in June at Fort York National Historic Site and showcases Indigenous visual arts, music, dance and storytelling

Resources

What’s open on September 30

While it is not a statutory holiday in Ontario, there are some closures to be aware of if you visit the city. All federally regulated businesses, including private sectors like banks and Crown corporations, as well as public sectors like Parliament and public services, will be closed.

Popular tourist attractions like the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario will be open.

Malls and grocery stores will also be open.