**Calgary and Edmonton Prepare for Truth and Reconciliation Day** Calgarians and Edmontonians are gearing up to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Tuesday, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring survivors of Canada’s residential school system and remembering the children who never returned home. The day is rooted in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, which were outlined in its final report released in 2015. One of these calls specifically requested a national day of commemoration. The date is also known as Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor who had her orange shirt taken away on her first day at school in British Columbia when she was just six years old. The orange shirt has become a symbol of the cultural assimilation and trauma experienced by Indigenous children. The Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary stated, “That moment, and the subsequent years of residential school, became a powerful symbol of the cultural assimilation, loss, and profound trauma inflicted upon Indigenous children.” In Calgary, various events are planned at locations such as The Confluence, Heritage Park, and the Calgary Public Library. The city is situated on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Tsuut’ina Nation, Stoney Nakoda Nations, and the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3. Many children from these communities were sent to residential schools, including Old Sun Residential School and St. Joseph’s Industrial School. Calgary has implemented several initiatives to promote reconciliation with Indigenous communities. Since 2016, the White Goose Flying Report has guided the city in addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action. The city is also working on a permanent memorial for residential school attendees, set to be located at The Confluence Historic Site. This memorial, named ‘The Wandering Spirit,’ is expected to begin construction in Spring 2027. On Monday, tipi holders from Treaty 7 nations raised over 25 tipis at The Confluence as part of the Orange Shirt Day programming. Activities on Tuesday will include dancing, drumming, and storytelling. Blair Cunningham, Indigenous program coordinator at The Confluence, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “It symbolizes the fact that not only were Indigenous people on this land first, but they’re still here today and their traditions are still very much alive.” In Edmonton, the city is also observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. A decorative crosswalk is being restored, and flags at city hall will be flown at half-staff to honor those who did not return from residential schools. The city has designated September 30 as a day for staff to engage in education and reflection. Edmonton will see city vehicles adorned with orange ribbons, and several municipal buildings will be illuminated in orange. Fort Edmonton Park will host a series of events, starting with an opening ceremony at 9:30 a.m. to launch the Indigenous Peoples Experience exhibit. Admission to Fort Edmonton and other municipal facilities will be free for self-declared First Peoples, Métis, and Inuit, although ticketed events will still require payment. City recreation facilities will operate on holiday hours, while some services, such as the Edmonton Service Centre and 311 phone services, will be closed. Both cities are taking significant steps to honor the legacy of residential schools and promote awareness and healing within their communities. As the day approaches, residents are encouraged to participate in the planned events and reflect on the importance of reconciliation.