Honouring Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day grew out of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s story of having her new orange shirt taken away on her first day of residential school. September 30 is also National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a national initiative to reflect on the harmful legacy of residential schools and commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation.

Canada’s residential school system was part of a purposeful attempt by the government to erase all aspects of First Nations, Inuit and Métis culture. From 1883 to 1997, over 150,000 children were taken from their families, often by force. Abuse within residential schools was widespread, and thousands of children never returned home.

The final report from the Truth & Reconciliation Commission specifically highlights the important role libraries have in educating and raising awareness about residential schools. We at BPL are committed to providing resources and programming to support learning about the legacy of residential schools—and honouring the healing journey of survivors and their families.

Burlington Public Library is located on the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

Events & Activities at BPL

We invite you to join us at these upcoming events and to wear an orange shirt on Tuesday, September 30, to affirm that "Every Child Matters." We encourage you to support the Orange Shirt Day Society if you still need a shirt or wish to make a donation.

Orange Shirt Day Buttons

Monday, September 21 to Wednesday, September 30 | Alton & Central

Visit our MakerStation at Alton during library open hours or MakerSpace at Central during All Levels Access, and we’ll help you make a button to take home and wear on Orange Shirt Day. Limit of one button/person.

Chaakapesh Film Screening

Tuesday, September 29 | 1:30-3:30pm | Central Branch

Join us at Afternoon at the Movies to mark the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation with a screening of Chaakapesh, a 2019 documentary. The film follows the Montreal Symphony Orchestra's tour of the northern Quebec tundra, where it performs an Indigenous-themed opera in Cree and Inuit communities. The opera Chaakapesh: The Trickster's Quest was written by Cree playwright and novelist Tomson Highway and composer Matthew Ricketts, and opened the Montreal Symphony's 85th season in 2018.

Canada's First Residential School

Wednesday, September 30 | 7-8pm | Central Branch

Indigenous educator Rick Hill Sr talks about the collection of essays in Behind the Bricks, an important work that offers deep insight into the Mohawk Institute, Canada's first and longest-running residential school, operating in Brantford from 1828 to 1970. The essays draw on a wide variety of sources and examine the policies and motivations that shaped the experiences of the government, the church, the students, and their communities. Behind the Bricks offers a window into the past and works toward a future of truth and reconciliation. This Culture Days Truth & Reconciliation event is made possible with funding from the City of Burlington. Limited seating; registration is required.

Community Events

Plan to attend local special events to learn more about Indigenous culture and heritage, and the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

Wiigwasitig Indigenous Exhibition & Opening Reception | Sat September 12, 1-3pm

Location: Art Gallery of Burlington, 1333 Lakeshore Road

Showcasing unique works created by Indigenous artists. Authentic catering for the reception is provided locally by Cedar Spoon.

Indigenous Storytelling with John | Sun September 27, 10am & Singing Performance by Lexie Zane, 12:45pm

Location: Older Adult Centre at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre, 2302 Bridge Road, Oakville

Hamilton National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gatherings | Wed September 30

Location: James Street Plaza / West Harbour, 3 Guise Street, Hamilton
City of Hamilton hosts annual public observances at the waterfront plaza.
- Sunrise Ceremony: Begins at 6am surrounding a sacred fire led by local Elders and firekeepers.
- Community Event: Runs 1-4pm, focusing on survivors' stories, education, healing, and Indigenous knowledge sharing.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Wed September 30

Location: Spencer Smith Park, Burlington

Annual Community Walk to Remember the Children | Wed September 30, 11:30am-1:30pm

Location: Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Burloak Entrance, 1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville (day-use area)
Hosted in collaboration with ROCK-Reach Out Centre for Kids and Bronte Creek Provincial Park
No entrance fee for this event; park in Parking Lot A. Please contact Grandmother's Voice regarding vehicle permit requirements.
Participants are encouraged to wear an orange shirt.
The gathering features an opening circle and ceremony led by Indigenous Traditional Teachers, followed by a walk down the paved 1km Maidens Blush Trail. Stroller-friendly and fully accessible for all mobility levels.