National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Every year on September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, 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.

The creation of this federal statutory holiday was through legislative amendments made by Parliament. On June 3, 2021, Bill C-5, An Act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation) received Royal Assent. 

On March 9, 2023, British Columbia passed legislation to make September 30 a statutory holiday in the province. This will be done through creating a new Act (The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Act) and amendments to the Employment Standards Act. 

All VCC employees and students are encouraged to learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation via the provincial and federal websites.