By Bimaadzwin Team
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September 4, 2025
A moment of remembrance, a call to healing: September 30, 2025 This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, invites all Canadians to pause, remember, learn, and act in solidarity with Indigenous survivors, families, and communities affected by the residential school system. It is a day of solemn commemoration and a powerful reminder that Every Child Matters. Why this day matters Established in 2013 through a survivor’s heart-wrenching story, Orange Shirt Day symbolizes not only the tangible losses of identity, culture, language, and dignity, but also the enduring resilience of Indigenous peoples. In 2021, this movement became Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—a federal statutory holiday born out of Call to Action 80, reflecting the nation’s commitment to facing an uncomfortable past and working toward repair. Looking ahead: September 30, 2025 As we approach the 5th statutory observance of this deeply significant day and the 13th Orange Shirt Day, it’s an opportunity to engage in collective truth-telling and healing. Across the country, communities, educational institutions, organizations, and individuals will come together—raising the Survivors’ Flag, honouring stories, hosting walks, sharing teachings, and wearing orange in unity. Bimaadzwin’s reflection and commitment At Bimaadzwin, we stand with Indigenous families in their pursuit of justice, healing, and equity. As we observe this day, we remind ourselves that commemoration must be interwoven with lasting action—through supporting survivors, empowering communities, and advancing systemic transformation. Isadore Day, CEO, Bimaadzwin shares: “We stand with First Nations families and communities in seeking justice and healing for the harms caused by discriminatory systems. This day is an opportunity to honour the resilience of our children and their futures—because every child truly matters.” This sentiment echoes Bimaadzwin’s broader work—advocating for the rights of children and families and supporting claims under the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle settlement, which offers a concrete pathway toward healing. How you can honour Every Child Matters Wear orange to show unwavering support and remembrance. Attend or host community commemorations —from walks and ceremonies to flag raisings. Engage in learning —understand the legacy of residential schools, the 94 Calls to Action, and how reconciliation can be enacted. Support grassroots and Indigenous-led initiatives , including the Orange Shirt Society’s vital education and advocacy work. On September 30, 2025, as we honour the children who never returned home and, with them, the enduring strength of survivors and their communities, let us also affirm our responsibility—to uphold that Every Child Matters not just in name, but in lasting, equitable action and care. Together, may we continue walking the path of truth, healing, and reconciliation—one step, one story, one child at a time.