National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in B.C.

What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?

This day serves as a time to recognize and reflect on the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools in Canada. It’s a statutory holiday in B.C. dedicated to honouring the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities.

This day of remembrance and action towards reconciliation was established to acknowledge the harm done to Indigenous peoples and to foster a commitment to truth and reconciliation across the nation.

When does it occur?

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in British Columbia is observed annually on September 30th.

Is it a stat holiday in B.C.?

Yes, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a statutory holiday in British Columbia. This day is recognized under the Employment Standards Act (ESA) in B.C.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation became a statutory holiday in British Columbia starting in 2023. This decision was formalized when Bill 2, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Act, received Royal Assent on March 9, 2023. This bill amended the province’s ESA to include September 30 as a statutory holiday, acknowledging the history and impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities in Canada.

Who currently gets Sept. 30 as a stat holiday in B.C.?

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30 is a paid stat holiday in B.C. for:

• Provincially regulated employees working in B.C.
• Employees working for a federally regulated company (i.e. banks, telecommunications, and transportation companies)
• Federal public service workers in B.C.