Sept. 30, 2025, will mark the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, a time to honour Indigenous voices and perspectives, acknowledge the ongoing trauma caused by residential and day schools, and remember the survivors and their families.

According to the City of Toronto, “It is also an opportunity to commit to the process of truth, justice and reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Toronto and across Canada.”

If you’d like to get involved, these are the ways you can observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Toronto.

Indigenous Legacy Gathering

A celebration of “Indigenous culture, community, and intergenerational connection” will be held at Nathan Phillips Square on the 29th and 30th.

There will be a lineup of activities, including performances and a sunrise ceremony on the morning of the 30th, starting at 7 a.m.

When: Monday, Sept. 29 and Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025
Where: Nathan Phillips Square – 100 Queen St. W.

Reconciliation Walk and Indigenous Art Trail

The Village at Black Creek will have a day of programming focused on contemplation and learning.

According to their event page, this will include:

  • Self-guided Reconciliation Walk created by True North Aid to learn more about the Residential School system.
  • Art installations created by local and Indigenous artists.
  • Reflection and art-based activities.

When: Monday, Sept. 29, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: The Village at Black Creek – 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy.

Toronto Zoo

All are invited to visit the Toronto Zoo on the 30th to help fill the front entrance bridge with orange ribbons. Guests are also invited to check out the First Nation Art Garden (outside the Americas Pavilion) to explore and learn more.

When: Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Toronto Zoo – 2000 Meadowvale Rd.

Toronto Public Library’s Indigenous reading list

Each year, the Toronto Public Library puts together a list of titles selected with the Indigenous Advisory Council.

The books are separated into age categories for children, teens and adults.

You can also read over the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action and the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice.

Personal support

You can show your support by purchasing an orange shirt from an Indigenous artist or company, or directly via the Orange Shirt Society.

Donations can also be made to the Indian Residential School Survivors (IRSS) Legacy project.

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Taylor Lucas

Associate Editor – Taylor is a Toronto-based journalist with a passion for storytelling. Whether chasing a story, writing, or editing, she brings a creative spin to the media world and has a blast doing it. Taylor brings years of journalism experience in sports, local/national news, and entertainment. In her spare time, you can typically find Taylor trying out a new restaurant or cocktail bar, cooking, golfing or binge-watching true crime documentaries.

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