Nova Scotia Forest Matters

The feather, a narwhal and a flower represent First Nations, Inuit and Métis. The symbols are surrounded by stars, a crescent moon, rising smoke, dotted patterns and flowing lines representing themes of remembrance and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.

“September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters

“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which called on the federal government, in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, to create a statutory holiday recognizing Survivors, their families, and communities while ensuring the history and legacy of residential schools are publicly remembered. Bill C-5, which established the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a federal statutory holiday, received Royal Assent on June 3, 2021.

“Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters began in Williams Lake, British Columbia, on September 30, 2013. Established to honour Residential School Survivors, their families, and those who never returned home, it serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impacts of the Residential School system. What began as a grassroots initiative has since evolved into a nationally recognized movement, with individuals, organizations, and communities across Canada participating in acts of remembrance, reflection, and reconciliation each year.