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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Sep. 26 2025

September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a time to honour the survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities. It is also a day for reconciliation—a moment to consider how we move forward and take meaningful action to build a country where Indigenous Peoples can heal and grow on their own terms, with their own vision leading the way.  
An image of hands clasped together, symbolizing unity and togetherness.

Economic reconciliation is essential for the future we want to build—a future where Indigenous Peoples determine their own goals and fully participate in the Canadian economy. 

Economic Equity

For Canadian Council for Indigenous Business and United for Literacy, economic reconciliation means removing barriers that limit opportunity, investing in education and skills, and building relationships based on respect and reciprocity. Non-Indigenous organizations, businesses, and governments have a vital role to play in advancing economic reconciliationto create pathways that enable Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs to grow and thrive. These pathways include providing access to learning that connects culture and tradition with the skills needed today, procuring Indigenous goods and services, and hiring and mentoring Indigenous people and entrepreneurs. It also includes supporting self-determination, so Indigenous communities have the authority, resources, and freedom to shape their own economic futures. 

Literacy and learning are central to this work. When education is shaped by communities and grounded in culture, it builds confidence, knowledge, and opportunity for future generations. It also opens space for conversations about sustainability and well-being that must be guided by Indigenous perspectives. 

Calls to Action

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established in 2008 and released its final report in 2015, which included 94 Calls to ActionThese Calls to Action are steps that organizations, governments, and individuals should take to advance reconciliation, support Indigenous self-determination, and build a more equitable future for all. 

Canadian Council for Indigenous Business and United for Literacy are moving forward in a spirit of innovation and understanding. Now we are calling on governments, businesses, and individuals alike to act for the betterment of Indigenous Peoples, businesses, communities and all Canadians. Will you join us? 

Making Connection

The word together is shown below in French, English, and nine Indigenous languages spoken across Turtle Island. These words reflect the diversity, strength, and unity of Indigenous cultures and communities.

The word “Together” translated into 11 languages: English (Together), French (Ensemble), and nine Indigenous languages — Inuktitut (ᑲᑎᒪᔫᒃ), Eastern Cree (Mâmawi), Mohawk (Skátne), Michif (Aansaamb), Ojibwe (Maamawi), Mi’kmaq (Toqwe'gig), Innu-Aimun (Mamu), Blackfoot (Istto’t), and Dakota (Witaya).


Inuktitut – ᑲᑎᒪᔫᒃ

Eastern Cree – Mâmawi

Mohawk – Skátne

Michif – Aansaamb

Ojibwe – Maamawi

Mi’kmaq – Toqwe'gig

Innu-Aimun – Mamu

Blackfoot – Istto’t

Dakota – Witaya

English - Together

French - Ensemble 

Updated on March 9, 2026

Questions and Answers

Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commmision of Canada's Calls to Action.on the Commision's website. This is a way to learn about the 94 specific actions that governments, organizations, and individuals can take to "redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation." These actions address specific topics, including child welfare, language, justice, and health. Another useful resource can be found on the Reconciliation Education website.

 

Yes! There are lots of resources and books for young people. Here are a few useful links to get you started:
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