Maple Ridge, B.C., Sept. 15, 2026 - The City of Maple Ridge will join communities across Canada in observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Wednesday, Sept. 30.
The day honours survivors of residential schools, remembers the children who never returned home, and reflects on the lasting impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous families and communities.
City Hall will be illuminated in orange beginning Sept. 27. Every Child Matters flags will fly at City Hall and flags at City facilities will be lowered to half-mast on Sept. 30. City Hall will be closed on Sept. 30. City staff and residents are encouraged to use the day for reflection and learning.
Community Gathering at Memorial Peace Park
Residents are invited to a community gathering on Sunday, Sept. 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Memorial Peace Park. The event is hosted by PLEA Community Services in partnership with Katzie First Nation, Fraser River Indigenous Society (FRIS), BC SPOKES, the City of Maple Ridge, and local organizations.
The gathering will include cultural performances, guest speakers, orange shirt painting, a community art project, drum circles, vendor booths, and opportunities for learning and resource sharing. Dedicated spaces will also support reflection, storytelling, and healing for those impacted by the residential school system. Free underground parking will be available at City Hall.
“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to listen, learn and reflect on the truth of Canada’s residential school history and its ongoing impacts,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “The City is committed to continuing to build respectful, meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities and supporting reconciliation through our actions year-round.”
Wear Orange on September 30
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation builds on the legacy of Orange Shirt Day, which began in Williams Lake, B.C. when residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad shared her story of having her new orange shirt — a gift from her grandmother — taken away on her first day at school. In 2021, the federal government established the day as a statutory holiday in response to Call to Action #80 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, ensuring that Every Child Matters remains a central message.
FRIS is selling orange T-shirts in support of its Community Connections Fund, which supports local initiatives. Shirts are available for $25 at the FRIS office, Unit 200, 11830 223 Street, and at the September 27 event.
Residents can purchase an orange shirt or other official merchandise at the Orange Shirt Society's online store at https://orangeshirtday.org/support/official-merch/.
“We encourage residents to join us on September 27 to honour survivors and remember the children who never returned home, and to take time on September 30 to reflect, learn and consider how each of us can contribute to respectful relationships and reconciliation,” said Anna Lilly, Director of External Relations.
Resources and Supports
For those seeking support, the National Residential School Survivors Society Emergency Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 1-800-721-0066. A 24-hour crisis line is also available at 1-866-925-4419.
Additional resources are available through the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and the Orange Shirt Society.
Some City facilities, including City Hall, will have reduced hours or be closed on Sept. 30 for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Regular hours resume Oct. 1. For details, visit MapleRidge.ca/HolidayHours.
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Media Contact:
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T: 604-466-4319 C: 778-955-4249 E: Media@MapleRidge.ca