Truth and Reconciliation Day: Why Remembering Matters

Sep 30

3 min read

By Sara Clark, MSW, RSW www.saraclark.ca

Every year on September 30, Canadians recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day is a time to learn about, remember, and honour the experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, especially the survivors of residential schools and the children who never returned home. Many people wear orange shirts on this day. The orange shirt comes from the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose new orange shirt was taken away from her on her first day at residential school. Her story became a symbol of the loss, harm, and discrimination experienced by Indigenous children across Canada.

Throughout my career, I have worked with Indigenous, Métis and Inuit in British Colombia, Saskatchewan and Alberta. I have learned that the history of colonisation and how it effected those who were colonised in Canada is not well understood in the general public. It is important for everyone to have an understanding of what has happened and is currently happening so that we do not repeat mistakes of the past.

Why This Day Matters

As a trauma therapist, I frequently talk with people about how painful experiences can affect individuals, families, and communities for many years. Trauma does not simply disappear when an event ends. It can impact a person's sense of safety, trust, identity, and connection to others. The residential school system in Canada caused deep and lasting harm. Children were separated from their families, languages, cultures, and communities. Many experienced emotional, physical, and spiritual abuse. The effects of these experiences continue to be felt today through what is often called intergenerational trauma, where the impacts of trauma can be passed from one generation to the next. Truth and Reconciliation Day gives us an opportunity to acknowledge these realities rather than look away from them.

The Importance of Truth

Healing begins with truth. In therapy, people often cannot move forward until their experiences are recognized and understood. The same is true for communities and nations. Truth means listening to survivors. It means learning accurate history, even when it is uncomfortable. It means understanding that the harms caused by residential schools were not isolated incidents but part of a system that aimed to erase Indigenous cultures and identities. When we are willing to hear the truth, we create space for validation, understanding, and healing.

What Reconciliation Really Means

Reconciliation is more than a single day, a social media post, or wearing an orange shirt. It is an ongoing commitment to building respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

Reconciliation asks us to:

Learn about Indigenous histories and cultures.
Listen to Indigenous voices and experiences.
Challenge stereotypes and misinformation.
Support Indigenous communities and initiatives.
Reflect on how we can contribute to a more equitable future.

In trauma therapy, repair happens through consistent actions, not just good intentions. Reconciliation works in much the same way.

Sitting With Discomfort

Many people feel sadness, guilt, anger, or uncertainty when learning about residential schools and the systemic policies that were put in place to eradicate cultures. These emotions are normal. It can be tempting to turn away from difficult information because it feels uncomfortable. However, growth often begins when we stay present with discomfort. We do not honour survivors by avoiding painful truths. We honour them by listening, learning, and allowing their stories to change us. As a therapist, I encourage clients to approach difficult emotions with curiosity and compassion. The same approach can help us engage with Canada's history in a meaningful way.

Moving Forward Together

Truth and Reconciliation Day is not only about looking at the past. It is also about considering the future we want to create. A trauma-informed approach reminds us that healing happens through safety, connection, respect, and accountability. These principles can guide us as individuals and as a country. Whether you spend September 30 attending a community event, reading Indigenous authors, listening to survivor stories, or having conversations with your family, every step toward understanding matters. Reconciliation is a journey of learning, listening, and taking action. By remembering the truth and honouring the resilience of Indigenous Peoples, we help create a future built on respect, dignity, and hope.