Every year on September 30, people across Canada pause to honour Survivors of residential schools, remember the children who never returned home, and reflect on the lasting impacts of these institutions.

At the Belonging Network, we recognize that the separation of Indigenous children from their families — through residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, and the modern child welfare system — has caused harm that is still deeply felt today. As an organization working in adoption and permanency, we are committed to listening, learning, and taking part in reconciliation.

One way we live out this commitment is by encouraging our community to take action. There are many ways you can participate on September 30. Below, we’ve gathered ideas for things you can do on your own, as well as community events happening across BC that you can join.

Things you can do

  • Wear an orange shirt to honour Survivors and show your commitment to reconciliation.
  • Attend an Indigenous event in your community.
  • Read about Truth and Reconciliation, residential schools, and Indigenous history to deepen your understanding.
  • Watch or read stories from Indigenous artists, authors, and knowledge keepers — and share them with others.
  • Support Indigenous artists and businesses by purchasing their work.
  • Donate to Indigenous-serving organizations like the Orange Shirt Society or the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.

Events

Vancouver

2026 Intergenerational March to Commemorate Orange Shirt Day
UBC Vancouver Campus | 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This year’s theme, “Listening to the Land,” invites participants to learn from the land and reflect on our responsibilities to the places we call home. The event includes speakers, drumming, performances, and an intergenerational march across campus.

Visit UBC’s website to learn more.

National Truth & Reconciliation Day
Grandview Park | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The day begins with an Honour Walk from the Vancouver Aboriginal Community Policing Centre to Grandview Park, followed by cultural and contemporary performances and an Indigenous market.

Visit Britannia Community Centre’s website to learn more.

Films for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation from Indigenous Voices
The Polygon Gallery | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Polygon Gallery will screen a selection of National Film Board films highlighting Indigenous voices and experiences. The films explore the continuing impacts of residential schools and the reclamation and revitalization of Indigenous communities and culture.

Visit the Polygon Gallery’s website to learn more.

Richmond

Family Storytime
Brighouse Library | 10:30 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 1:30 p.m.

Join Richmond Public Library for a special Family Storytime featuring picture books written and illustrated by Indigenous creators.

The library will also screen short films by Indigenous creators from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit Richmond Public Library’s website to learn more.

Langley

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Douglas Park | 4 to 9 p.m.

Hosted by the Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society, this community gathering includes the Red Hawk Drummers, speakers and personal stories, an Educational Story Walk, and a Candlelight Walk.

Visit the City of Langley’s website to learn more.

Coquitlam

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Place des Arts
Place des Arts | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1 to 3 p.m.

Join Indigenous artists as they share personal stories, reflect on their journeys, and showcase their artforms. Participants can also create their own small art piece and explore books from Coquitlam Public Library’s Indigenous collections.

Visit Place des Arts’ website to reserve your spot and learn more.

Chilliwack

Bridging Hearts: A Step Towards Unity and Healing
Coqualeetza Grounds, near the Longhouse | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Stóō Service Agency invites the community to its second annual Bridging Hearts gathering, featuring Indigenous guest speakers, cultural performances, Indigenous vendors, and food trucks. Everyone is encouraged to wear an orange shirt.

Visit Stóō Service Agency’s website to learn more.

Whistler

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at the SLCC
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spend the day reflecting, listening, and learning through storytelling, guest speakers, films, cultural sharing, hands-on activities, exhibits, tours, and the Spo7ez Artist Market.

Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre’s website to learn more.

Victoria

5th Annual South Island Powwow
Royal Athletic Park | Gates open at 10 a.m., Grand Entry at 12 p.m.

Hosted by the Songhees Nation, the South Island Powwow is an opportunity to recognize Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation. Through song and dance, the gathering celebrates traditional Indigenous cultures and resiliency.

Visit the Songhees Nation’s website to learn more.

6th Annual Ride & Reconciliation
Songhees Point Park | 8:30 to 11 a.m.

Join Capital Bike, Victoria Orange Shirt Day, and Songhees community members for a morning of learning and reflection, followed by a 9.2-kilometre family-friendly bike ride toward the South Island Powwow.

Visit Capital Bike’s website to learn more.

Sooke

Orange Shirt Day & Community Gathering
Sooke Region Museum | Walk begins at 12 p.m.

Community members are invited to walk together to Edward Milne Community School, followed by cultural performances, Indigenous vendors, food trucks, and community activities.

Visit the Sooke Orange Shirt Day’s event listing to learn more.

Duncan

Every Child Matters Walk
Cowichan Tribes Soccer Field | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Gather in truth, honour the children, and walk together at the Every Child Matters Walk. This year’s five-kilometre route begins and ends at the Cowichan Tribes Soccer Field.

Visit the City of Duncan’s website to learn more.

Nanaimo

Wellness Unites: A Community Event for Health and Reconciliation
Deverill Square Park | 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Beban Pool & Weight Room | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Frank Crane Arena | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The City of Nanaimo invites families to a free day of wellness and community, with a Traditional Blessing, artwork unveiling, sports and games, family activities, and community stations. Free swimming, skating, and weight-room access will also be available.

Visit the City of Nanaimo’s website to learn more.

Why it matters

Reconciliation is not a single day — it’s an ongoing journey we walk together. By showing up, learning, and taking action, we honour Survivors, their families, and communities. Most importantly, we commit to building a future rooted in truth, justice, and respect.