The Government of Canada has formally designated September 30th, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, as a statutory holiday for employees in the federal government and federally regulated workplaces. This day will be observed to honour First Nations, Inuit, and Metis survivors, and their families and communities, and ensure the public commemoration of their history and the legacy of residential schools.
The Lambton Kent District School Board will commemorate the impact of residential schools on Monday, September 30th, 2025 – Orange Shirt Day. Students and staff are encouraged to wear orange shirts and use this day as a catalyst to encourage learning and understanding about the residential school system and the impacts that system has had on First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people. This is a meaningful way for a school community to come together in a spirit of reconciliation and hope because “Every Child Matters”. Respectfully, both the “Every Child Matters” flag and the Canadian flag at all LKDSB schools and facilities will be lowered on September 30th.
This recognition day will be part of the activities and discussions occurring during the Truth and Reconciliation Week, September 22 to September 26, which will also include discussions about the truth of Indigenous treaties, languages, and culture, and First Nation, Metis, and Inuit land claims.
In honouring and remembering those impacted by residential schools, LKDSB commissioned a new orange shirt design in 2021. Orange shirts are available for order by interested staff and students from Team Outfitters, a company in Sarnia. Team Outfitters has created an online store for LKDSB orders; therefore, staff and families will submit payment online directly to Screenart. https://teamoutfitters.net/collections/lkdsb-every-child-matters The store is open immediately for purchases, and will remain open until Sunday, September 7th. All shirts ordered will be delivered to the schools via the board courier by September 29th.