This joint media release is being shared on behalf of The Blue Mountains Public Library and the Town of The Blue Mountains.
The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to advise members of the public that Tuesday, September 30, 2025, will mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. The Town and the Blue Mountains Public Library (BMPL) invite the community to take part in a series of events and learning opportunities in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Together, we reflect on the impact of residential schools, listen to Indigenous voices and explore pathways towards truth, reconciliation and healing.
To honour this day, the Town will fly the Truth and Reconciliation flag from September 23 to October 1, with a formal proclamation ceremony taking place outside Town Hall on September 30, at 9:00 a.m. to recognize the victims and survivors of Residential Schools across Canada.
“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a solemn reminder of the intergenerational impacts of the residential school system,” said Mayor Andrea Matrosovs. “As a Town, we remain committed to taking action, listening to Indigenous voices, creating inclusive spaces and ensuring that our plans and strategies reflect the values of equity, respect and healing. We are on a learning journey. Each year, this day is a moment to pause and reflect on that journey and, with intention, take the next steps forward on the path to Truth and Reconciliation.”
On September 30, at 3:30 p.m., the BMPL invites community members aged 8+ to attend L.E. Shore Library to make orange scrunchies in honour of Orange Shirt Day. This activity reflects on the story of Phyllis Webstad and the many Indigenous children affected by residential schools, with each scrunchie becoming a personal reminder of truth, healing and remembrance. For more information and to register, visit www.thebluemountainslibrary.ca.
On Friday, September 26, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the BMPL will be hosting a free screening of Voices – Lighting a Pathway to Indigenous Inclusion. Produced by Muckpaloo Ipeelie, this powerful film explores how the past continues to shape the present through stories from Indigenous leaders and community members. Following the screening, Muckpaloo will share insights on Inuit culture and lead a discussion on themes of partnership, patience and common ground.
Throughout the entire month of September, the BMPL has recognized Truth and Reconciliation with a series of Indigenous programs, collections and exhibits. Members of the community are invited to continue to explore, learn and reflect by checking out:
- The Indigenous Reads Booklist – Discover a curated selection of powerful books highlighting Indigenous voices, histories and contemporary experiences.
- The Library of Things – Borrow the Artic Tundra Flash Card/Matching Game, designed by Muckpaloo Ipeelie of the Urban Inuit Identity Project.
- The L.E. Shore Library – Explore the Museum’s Indigenous History in The Blue Mountains exhibit, an interactive display of the 94 Calls to Action.
- The Craigleith Heritage Depot – Visit to learn more about Indigenous history and culture in The Blue Mountains and watch free award-winning local history films:
“As memory institutions and centres of learning, libraries and museums play an important role in honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation,” said Jennifer Murley, CEO and Board Secretary of BMPL. “Through these events and resources, we support and advance the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action while helping our community reflect and learn together.”
Additional Resources for Learning:
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: Free webinars available September 22 to September 26, with English, French and ASL interpretation.
- Whose Land: Interactive mapping tool to learn about the traditional lands you live on.
- Government of Canada Resources: Learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, and stories of First Nations, Inuit and Metis People.
Support Services Available
- The National Residential School Crisis Line: This national crisis line is available 24-hours a day to provide support for former students and those affected. Access support and crisis referral services by calling 1-866-925-4419.
- The Hope for Wellness Help Line: Indigenous peoples across Canada can connect with The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call the toll-free help line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.
