09/30/2026
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Orange Shirt Day
A Message from the Desk of Yolanda Wanakamik, Executive Director
Today, on September 30, Nokiiwin Tribal Council stands with Survivors of the residential school system, with the families and communities who carry the stories, and with the children who never came home. Every Child Matters.
For our member Nations, this history is not distant. It lives in our families, our languages, and our communities, and so does the strength that carried our people through it. Reconciliation asks all of us to honour that truth and that resilience, not just today but every day.
Guided by the Seven Sacred Teachings at the heart of our work, I invite everyone to consider how they can take part:
🧡 Truth (Debwewin): Learn the full history of residential schools and seek out the voices of Survivors.
🧡 Respect (Mnaadendamowin): Listen before speaking and honour Survivors' experiences.
🧡 Humility (Dabaadendiziwin): Remain open to learning, growth, and understanding.
🧡 Bravery (Aakode'ewin): Speak up when you see racism or injustice and help challenge systems that continue to cause harm.
🧡 Love (Zaagi'idiwin): Care for one another and recognize that this day can bring up difficult emotions for many individuals, families, and communities.
Wearing orange on September 30 is a way to say to Survivors and their families: we see you, we believe you, and we walk with you. I encourage everyone to wear orange, attend a local gathering or ceremony, and carry the spirit of this day forward into meaningful action throughout the year.
Nokiiwin remains committed to our mission of uniting and empowering First Nations by supporting growth, resilience, and cultural pride. Together, we can continue building healthier, thriving communities for the generations to come.
Miigwech,
Yolanda Wanakamik
Executive Director
Nokiiwin Tribal Council
If this day brings up difficult feelings, support is available through the Hope for Wellness Help Line (1-855-242-3310) and the National Indian Residential School Crisis Line (1-866-925-4419), available 24 hours a day.
