National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Tuesday, September 30, 2025, marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada
The day honours the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities.
The statutory holiday came into effect in 2021 to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s call to action number 80 by creating a statutory holiday which seeks to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis Survivors and their families and communities.
Throughout September, Mississauga joins the rest of Canada to commemorate the history and continuing impacts of this tragedy in our journey for reconciliation. It is a time of education, reflection and remembrance.
Orange Shirt Day
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coincides with Orange Shirt Day.
Created in 2013 by Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor, Orange Shirt Day is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the impact of residential schools on Indigenous Communities, honour Survivors and continue learning as we work toward reconciliation.
Wear an orange shirt on September 30 and be a part of the national conversation using the hashtag #EveryChildMatters.
Join the official unveiling of Mississauga’s first National Historic Sites marker
On Thursday, September 25, Parks Canada, in partnership with the National Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada is planning an unveiling of the Nahnebahweequay plaque in Port Credit, with a reception beginning at 5:30 p.m. and ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Mississauga’s Port Credit Memorial Arena.
As background, the plaque focuses on Nahnebahweequay, also known as Catherine Sutton, who was born at the Mississaugas Credit Mission Village in the 1830s. She was an early advocate of Indigenous rights and her advocacy took her to meet Queen Victoria on two separate occasions. She is one of the most recognized and celebrated members of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.
All are welcome to attend. Follow the City of Mississauga X for the further details.
Learn, reflect and engage at Mississauga Celebration Square
On Tuesday, September 30, the digital screens at Mississauga Celebration Square will highlighting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and the City’s commitment to reconciliation.
Bradley Museum Truth and Reconciliation tour
On September 30, visit the Bradley Museum to learn about the history of Indigenous Peoples in Mississauga. Staff will also share what the City of Mississauga is doing today to further the process of reconciliation and the 94 Calls to Action. Tours will run every half-hour between noon and 4 p.m.
Hands-on activities are available for families to honour the children lost to the residential school system and the survivors, and to reflect on their own personal journey to reconciliation.
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot. Admission is free.
This program includes difficult subject matter that may be upsetting for some visitors and may not be appropriate for all ages.
Walking Together: A Journey for Reconciliation
On Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join in for a special event at The Riverwood Conservancy, where all will come together to walk, learn and reflect on the path towards reconciliation. This in-person gathering aims to foster understanding, respect, and unity among all participants. Take steps towards healing and building stronger relationships with one another. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a meaningful journey towards reconciliation.
2025 All-Nations Powwow
Sisters in Spirit Day (October 4) honours missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. It’s a day to remember, raise awareness and call for justice. Join the U of T Mississauga Indigenous Centre for the 2025 All-Nations Powwow at U of T Mississauga on Saturday, October 4, from noon to 5 p.m.
Get free tickets
2025 Healing and Gathering Weekend
Join Eagle Spirits of the Great Waters for its 5th annual Healing and Gathering Weekend from September 27 to 28, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days. Held at the Small Arms Inspection Building grounds, take part in two days of learning, engagement, reflection and resilience.
Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation flag raising
To recognize both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, the City will raise the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) flag on September 30 at Mississauga Celebration Square.
Lighting the clock tower
To recognize both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, the Civic Centre clock tower will be lit orange on September 30.
Mississauga’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation in action
In the fall of 2020, A report entitled “Reaffirming the City of Mississauga’s Relationship with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation” was approved by City Council. As part of that commitment, the City reaffirmed its relationship with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation by permanently installing the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation flag in the City of Mississauga’s Council Chambers. By-law Number 7362 was also amended to recognize the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Indigenous origin of the City of Mississauga’s name
In February 2022, former Mayor Bonnie Crombie along with Members of Council and Indigenous leaders from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) raised the Every Child Matters flag to fly permanently at City Hall. The City of Mississauga was the first large municipality in Canada to permanently raise the Every Child Matters flag.
Endorsement of a policy focused on the Use of Indigenous Images/Themes in City Sports Facilities. The policy promotes a positive and inclusive experience at City sports facilities, while supporting a climate of understanding and mutual respect.
Approval of the recommendations found in the City’s Annual Reconciliation Report and Land Acknowledgement Renewal, including refreshing the City’s existing Indigenous Land Statement, which was formally adopted in 2017.
Adoption of Resolution 0207-2020 to address systemic discrimination and inequities within Mississauga, including accessibility to resources, services and supports for Black and Indigenous residents.