National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Sep 30, 2026

On Sept. 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we remember and reflect on the lasting mental health impacts that the residential school system has had on Indigenous peoples, families and communities across Canada.

We honour the children who never came home. We recognize the survivors who continue to live with the ongoing impacts of the residential school system. We acknowledge the resilience, strength and leadership of Indigenous peoples across generations.

This day encourages everyone to learn and deepen their understanding of the history and lasting impacts of the residential school system. Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that requires all of us to confront the truths of Canada’s history, challenge our assumptions and learn from Indigenous voices and experiences.

CMHA Peel Dufferin is committed to working alongside Indigenous communities and organizations to support Indigenous-led approaches to healing, wellness and mental health.

A commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous mental health

Across the province, CMHA branches are working with Indigenous leaders, organizations and communities to strengthen culturally responsive approaches to mental health and well-being. This includes:

• Supporting Indigenous-led mental health initiatives that honour traditional healing practices and ways of being.
• Engaging in meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities to help inform programs and services.
• Building Indigenous cultural awareness and understanding among staff.
• Promoting self-determination and recognizing Indigenous approaches to mental health, healing and well-being.

Local learning and partnership with The Brave Canoe

CMHA Peel Dufferin is proud to work in partnership with The Brave Canoe to create opportunities for cultural learning, reflection and a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives and experiences.

As part of this work, community members are invited to join us for Restoring Balance and Fostering Unity with the Hand Drum, an Indigenous cultural learning session led by The Brave Canoe.

Through traditional teachings, storytelling and shared reflection, participants will explore the significance of the hand drum as a symbol of connection, healing and community, while learning more about Indigenous perspectives on wellness, balance and belonging.

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: 1 Elizabeth Street, Orangeville, ON
Cost: Free

Support The Brave Canoe’s Orange Shirt initiative

The Brave Canoe also offers Orange Shirts in several language designs, including Ojibwe, Mohawk, Cayuga, Cree, Cree Syllabics, Oneida, Lenape and Indigenous Ally. The shirts provide another opportunity to learn, show solidarity and support Indigenous-led programming and initiatives. Proceeds help The Brave Canoe continue programming that supports Indigenous communities. Visit The Brave Canoe’s Orange Shirt site to learn more and explore the available designs: https://thebravecanoe.secure-decoration.com

Take action and learn more

This Sept. 30, we encourage our community to take time to reflect, learn from Indigenous voices and support Indigenous-led initiatives. Reconciliation requires continued learning and action as we work toward communities rooted in respect, understanding and social justice.

For information and resources about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: https://nctr.ca/

Stay connected with CMHA Peel Dufferin on social media as we continue to share resources, books, films, music and other opportunities to learn from Indigenous voices and deepen our understanding beyond Sept. 30.