September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, a
reminder that “Every Child Matters”.
The day honours the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools,
and their families and communities who continue to live with the ongoing impacts of that
history. This day is a time for public commemoration, learning, and reflection on the legacy of
residential schools and on our shared responsibility in reconciliation.
As public relations professionals, we have a responsibility to help create workplaces that listen
to Indigenous voices, acknowledge historical and ongoing injustices, and commit to meaningful
reconciliation. Through our communication strategies and organizational leadership, we can
help shape a more respectful and informed culture.
Here are a few ways we can show leadership in our profession:
- Highlight Indigenous-led stories and initiatives in both internal and external
communications
- Facilitate learning opportunities for staff about the history and legacy of residential
schools
- Review and improve our use of language, imagery, and policies to ensure cultural
respect and safety
- Support Indigenous businesses, organizations, artists, and educators in authentic and
sustained ways
Resources
On September 30, Canadians are encouraged to wear orange to honour the Survivors of
residential schools and to remember the thousands of children who never returned home.