September and October are significant months for reflecting on Canada’s history and acknowledging the experiences of Indigenous communities. Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day are both observed each year on Sept. 30. In addition, Nova Scotians observe Treaty Day on Oct. 1. This date also marks the start of Mi’kmaw History Month.

September’s days of observance

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools and asks Canadians to reflect on the ongoing impact of these institutions. Established as a federal statutory holiday in 2021, this day highlights the importance of truth and reconciliation in Canada’s pursuit of justice and healing.

Orange Shirt Day offers Canadians an opportunity to visibly demonstrate solidarity and acknowledge the injustices faced by Indigenous children in residential schools. Inspired by Phyllis Webstad’s story of having her new orange shirt taken away on her first day at St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School, Orange Shirt Day symbolizes the collective memory and resilience of survivors and their families. The orange shirt symbolizes how the culture, freedom and self-esteem of Indigenous children were stripped away; it is intended to promote the concept that “Every Child Matters.”

October is Mi’kmaw History Month

Each October, Nova Scotians commemorate Mi’kmaw History Month. It’s a time to celebrate the first people of this region and honour their cultural contributions, to practise learning and unlearning, and to build understanding of Mi’kmaw history and heritage. On Oct. 1, people in Nova Scotia mark Treaty Day, which recognizes the 1752 Peace and Friendship Treaty signed by the Mi’kmaq and the British empire.

Reconciliation in health care

Physicians can support and uplift Indigenous communities by addressing historical traumas and considering the unique needs of these populations. By developing cultural competency, physicians can better serve Indigenous community members.

In September 2024, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) apologized for its role, and the role of the medical profession, in past and ongoing harms to First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in the health system.

“We have not lived up to the ethical standards the medical profession is expected to uphold to ensure the highest standard of care is provided to patients and trust is fostered in physicians, residents and medical students,” said Dr. Joss Reimer, CMA president. “We realize we have left Indigenous Peoples out of that high standard of care.”

“Today, we turn the first page of a new chapter in the CMA’s history,” said Dr. Alika Lafontaine, CMA president (2022–23). “It’s a chapter that we hope First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples can write with us together, as we work toward a health system that provides Indigenous Peoples with the right care, at the right time, in the right place, in a good way.”

Building on its past reconciliation work, the CMA has created the ReconciliACTION Plan, which outlines how the association will advance health and well-being for Indigenous Peoples, support the medical profession’s journey toward truth and reconciliation, and promote internal reconciliation as an organization.

How to show your support

Wearing orange on Orange Shirt Day is an easy way to start. Consider these suggestions for other ways to broaden your understanding of Indigenous history, attend local events in your community, support residential school survivors, promote Indigenous health and work toward a better future for all people in Canada.

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