St. Thomas to Host Annual Orange Shirt Day/ National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Community Gathering on September 30
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The City of St. Thomas will host its annual Orange Shirt Day/National Day for Truth and Reconciliation community gathering on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, inviting residents and visitors to come together for an afternoon of reflection, learning, and connection.
September 30 is a day to honour the Survivors of residential schools, remember the children who never returned home, and recognize the lasting impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous families and communities.
The gathering will begin at 12 p.m. with a flag raising and opening remarks in front of City Hall, followed by community activities at St. Thomas Public Library and Westlake-Evans Park.
The afternoon will include opportunities for attendees to learn, listen, and connect through:
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Indigenous cultural performances
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Guest speakers and knowledge sharing
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Educational displays
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Indigenous artisans and vendors
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An indoor film screening
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Free lunch (while supplies last)
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Additional activities and programming
“It has been inspiring to see this gathering grow year after year, with more members of our community coming together to learn, reflect, and stand alongside one another,” said Mayor Joe Preston. “I look forward to spending the afternoon with our community as we honour Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and continue the important work of listening, learning, and advancing reconciliation together.”
This free, family-friendly event is open to everyone. Attendees are encouraged to wear orange as a symbol of remembrance and support for survivors, their families, and communities affected by the residential school system.
Official Orange Shirt Day merchandise is available through the Orange Shirt Society at orangeshirtday.org.
For more event information, visit the City of St. Thomas Facebook page.