09/29/2026
Patterson Law LLP offices will be closed on September 30 in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Also known as Orange Shirt Day, September 30 honours the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. It is also a day to reflect on the ongoing impacts of the residential school system and the work of reconciliation.
For those looking to learn, reflect or participate, here are a few resources and ways to mark the day:
• Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report and learn more about its 94 Calls to Action: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1450124405592/1529106060525
• Watch Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, whose story inspired Orange Shirt Day, share her story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3vUqr01kAk
• Watch Gord Downie’s Secret Path and learn about the story of Chanie Wenjack: https://secretpath.ca/
• Read I Lost My Talk by Mi’kmaw poet Rita Joe: https://poetryinvoice.ca/read/poems/i-lost-my-talk
• Visit the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax: https://www.mymnfc.com/
• Visit Indigenous cultural and heritage sites in your community.
• Support Indigenous artists and small business owners.
• Visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation for educational resources and programming: https://nctr.ca/
• Learn more about the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP):https://www.un.org/development/desa/indigenouspeoples/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2018/11/UNDRIP_E_web.pdf
Mental health and wellness supports are available to Survivors and their families through the Hope for Wellness Helpline at 1-855-242-3310.
We encourage everyone to take some time on September 30 to listen, learn and reflect.