The Town will be recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Members of the community are invited to recognize the day by reflecting on the impacts of the residential school system, listening to Indigenous voices and continuing to learn about truth, reconciliation and healing.
To honour this day, the Town will fly the Truth and Reconciliation flag from September 23 to October 1, with a formal proclamation ceremony taking place at the Riverwalk Flag Pole by Town Hall on September 30 at 9:00 a.m. to recognize the victims and survivors of Residential Schools across Canada. Those attending are encouraged to wear orange in recognition of Orange Shirt Day and in support of Residential School Survivors, their families and the ongoing work of Reconciliation.
There are a number of upcoming local events, programs and resources for community members interested in learning more about Indigenous histories, cultures and perspectives, including:
Blue Mountains Public Library
Explore the Blue Mountain Public Library’s (BMPL) Indigenous Reads and Recent Reads on Indigenous Realities collections, watch the REEL History: Indigenous History of the Blue Mountains or visit the Indigenous History exhibit at Craigleith Heritage Depot Museum & Archive.
Upcoming BMPL programming includes an Art Workshop with Indigenous-owned local business Wild & Glorious on September 23, a Cedar Salve Workshop & Teachings with Roots & Raven on November 14 and exploration of Inuit Culture, Storytelling & Artifacts with the Urban Inuit Identity Project on November 19.
Blue Mountain Resort
Blue Mountain Resort, in partnership with the Blue Mountain Village Association, invites the community to join a day of listening, reflection, and connection in honour of Truth and Reconciliation Day. The event offers space to walk together in the spirit of truth, reconciliation, and collective healing, and to hold space for the lived experiences of Residential School survivors, their families, and the generations after them.
All are welcome. Please note that some subject matter shared throughout the day may be of a mature nature, at the discretion of the speakers.
WHAT: Truth and Reconciliation Day at Blue Mountain
WHEN: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
WHERE: Blue Mountain Village Main Stage and Elevate (Mbin'ge), Blue Mountain Resort — 156 Jozo Weider Blvd, Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 3Z2
SCHEDULE
- 11:00 AM: Opening Song and Remarks at the Village Main Stage Remarks from the Chippewas of Nawash Native Child Welfare Program
- 11:20 AM: Survivor Story Sharing with Eagle Blackbird and his grandmother, Jennie Blackbird
- 12:00 PM: Traditional Hoop Dance and Honour Song presented by Theland Kicknosway, followed by an Awareness Walk through the Village
- 1:00 – 1:30 PM: Gondola Ride to Elevate (Mbin'ge) Note: gondola tickets available for attendees at the Village Main Stage
- 1:30 – 2:30 PM: Mountaintop program at the Elevate Art Installation: Remarks followed by a Listening Panel and Discussion
WHY: This gathering creates a meaningful opportunity for employees, local businesses, media, and the broader community to learn from and stand alongside Indigenous survivors and community members, and to participate in acts of remembrance and reconciliation.
First Nations Public Library Week
From October 1 to 4, learn more about First Nations libraries, communities and Indigenous knowledge through the Ontario Library Service’s program schedule.
Additional Resources for Learning
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: Free webinars available September 21 to September 25, with English, French and ASL interpretation.
- Whose Land: Explore this interactive mapping tool to learn about the traditional lands you live on.
- Government of Canada Resources: Learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, and stories of First Nations, Inuit and Metis People.
Support Services Available
- The National Residential School Crisis Line: This national crisis line is available 24-hours a day to provide support for former students and those affected. Access support and crisis referral services by calling 1-866-925-4419.
- The Hope for Wellness Help Line: Indigenous peoples across Canada can connect with The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call the toll-free help line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.