National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The day honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
Together for Truth and Reconciliation
Join Parkland County and community partners as we come together to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Heritage Park, Stony Plain | 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Wear your orange shirt and join us for a meaningful day of reflection, learning, and connection as we recognize Indigenous voices, experiences, and resilience.
The event will feature a welcome and engaging presentation by Lance Cardinal, Reconciliation Moments, and live music by the Stirling John Band. Guests are invited to enjoy tea and bannock while gathering in the spirit of reconciliation and community.
This free event is open to everyone.
Horizon Stage, Spruce Grove | 6:30 p.m.
Join us for an evening of reflection and connection as we mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This gathering creates space to journey through the truths of Canada’s past, deepen our understanding of the present, and envision a future rooted in respect, justice, and shared responsibility.
Through stories, reflections, and open conversation, we will honour the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples and confront the ongoing impacts of colonialism. This is a time to listen, learn, and explore how each of us can commit to the work of healing and reconciliation.
Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, either in real time or anonymously. All are welcome. To close the evening, tea, bannock, and light refreshments will be served.
Free for all ages.
Presented in Partnership By
- Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association
- Native Counselling Services of Alberta
- Skydancer Indigenous Cultural Centre
- Alberta Parenting for the Future Association
- Elizabeth Fry Society
- Parkland County
- Town of Stony Plain
Other Community Events
The Orange Shirt Story
Beginning September 26, The Orange Shirt Story by Phyllis Webstad will be displayed as a StoryWalk at:
- Coal Diamond Sports Park, Wabamun
- Prospectors Point
The story shares the experience of Phyllis Webstad, a residential school Survivor whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at school. The experience became a symbol of the loss of identity, culture, and belonging experienced by many Indigenous children in residential schools.
Learn more about The Orange Shirt Story through the CBC feature.
Community Round Dance
- Saturday, October 17, 2026
- 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Jubilee Hall, Wabamun
Everyone is welcome, whether it's your first Round Dance or you're experienced. While ribbon skirts and shirts are encouraged, they are not mandatory.
Learn More About Truth and Reconciliation
Explore these free resources to deepen your understanding of residential schools, truth, reconciliation, and Indigenous perspectives.
Online Resources
- Project of Heart – FREE & Online
- Indigenous Canada Course FREE & Online
- Orange Shirt Day
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, University of Manitoba
Library Resources
Recommended Reading
Films and Documentaries
Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action
- The 94 Calls to Action (CTAs) are actionable policy recommendations meant to aid the healing process in two ways: acknowledging the full, horrifying history of the residential school’s system, and creating systems to prevent these abuses from ever happening again in the future.
