National Day for Truth & Reconciliation (Sep 30)
Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours Survivors of the residential school system, the children who never returned home, and their families and communities. It is a time to reflect on the history and lasting impacts of residential schools on Indigenous communities and to engage in meaningful learning and action in support of reconciliation.
Both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30. Orange Shirt Day is a grassroots campaign founded by Phyllis Webstad that is intended to raise awareness about the impacts of the residential school system. It was inspired by her story of having her new orange shirt taken away on her first day of school at St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School in Williams Lake, BC. The orange shirt has become a symbol of hope, reconciliation and a commitment to a better future. Everyone is encouraged to wear orange on September 30 to honour the Survivors of residential schools.
Commemorate the Day
Thank you to everyone who took part in commemorating National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Richmond in 2025. Planning is currently underway for 2026, check back here in September for details.
Facility Hours
Some City facilities will have reduced hours or be closed in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:
- City Hall: Closed on Tuesday, September 30.
- Recycling Depot: Closed on Tuesday, September 30; reopens Wednesday, October 1.
- Blue cart collection will remain as scheduled. All other residential services will be pushed back by one day due to the statutory holiday.
- Brighouse Library and Richmond Cultural Centre: Open from 10:00am to 4:00pm on Tuesday, September 30. All other library branches will be closed. For details, visit YourLibrary.ca.
- Community Facilities: Visit richmond.ca/HolidayHours for a list of modified hours.