Events on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Sep 30th 2025

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September 30th is National Day of Truth of Reconciliation, or Orange Shirt Day. (Matteo Baruffato/Unsplash)

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — First Nations groups around the Peace region have announced plans to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Also known as Orange Shirt Day, September 30th is a day to recognize the atrocities and multi-generational trauma suffered by members of the Indigenous community in Canada’s residential school system.

First observed in 2013, it was recognized as a national holiday in 2021. Events will be held by the Treaty 8 Tribal Association (T8TA), the Fort St. John Friendship Society (FSJFS), the Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) and the Fort St. John Métis Society (FSJMS).

Additionally, First Nations observing or hosting events include Doig River First Nation (DRFN), Prophet River First Nation (PRFN) and Fort Nelson First Nation (FNFN).

Attendance is free to attend, and all are welcome to observe.

Tea Dance and Round Dance

On Saturday, September 27th, a Tea Dance and Round Dance is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m., organized by the Treaty 8 Tribal Association in coordination with the IRSSS, FSJFS and the District of Taylor.

A pipe ceremony, followed by a feast and dance, will take place at the Taylor Community Hall at 9896 Cherry Avenue West. There will also be a 50/50 draw, raffles and door prizes at the event.

Doig River First Nation

On Tuesday, September 30th, several events around the region will take place, including at Doig River First Nation (DRFN).

DRFN’s educational centre will hold an event for school-aged children to “connect, create and explore,” according to a Facebook post.

Featuring crafts, songs, outdoor games and more, the event will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday and is open to all students to attend.

Prophet River First Nation

PRFN will have beadwork kits at the community’s school available on Monday, September 29th, to create orange shirt beadwork.

Fort Nelson First Nation

On Tuesday, a workshop will be held by FNFN entitled ‘Embracing the Sacred Inner Child,’ alongside a full day of activities at the Nation’s Health and Wellness Arbour.

Overseen by Tammy Wasman of Willow Whispers Readings, the workshop will “take participants on a journey of self-awareness, discovery and healing,” according to a Facebook post.

The age limit for the event is 20 years old. It will take place at the FNFN cultural education centre from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

T8TA/FSJFS (Tuesday)

Additionally, T8TA will hold an observance walk and barbecue on Tuesday, in partnership with the FSJFS. Attendance is free.

The walk will begin at 10 a.m. at the Treaty 8 Tribal Association building at 10233 100th Avenue, heading over to FSJFS offices at 10208 95th Avenue, where attendees can design their own orange shirts.

A walk back to the association’s building will conclude with a barbecue scheduled for 12 noon.

Fort St. John Métis Society

FSJMS will also be hosting its second annual Fishing Derby on Tuesday as well. Entry fees are $25 for adults, with free entry for children.

The event will take place on the docks of Charlie Lake. Those taking part must have a fishing licence prior to the event, and lunch will be provided for entrants.

Pre-registration can be done by e-mail at fsjmetis@telus.net.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will take place on Tuesday, September 30th.