Indigenous Events
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation 2025
September 30th is a day to honour Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities. It is also a time to reflect on the ongoing impacts of colonialism and to commit to meaningful reconciliation.
We encourage everyone to engage with Indigenous voices, learn from Indigenous media, and support Indigenous Peoples, families, and communities, not just on this day, but year-round.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Greater Victoria
Resources to Learn & Reflect
- South Island Indigenous Business Directory: Explore and support Indigenous-owned businesses across southern Vancouver Island.
- All My Relations Podcast
Hosts Matika Wilbur and Adrienne Keene explore what it means to be Native today.
Listen Here - 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph
A powerful primer for understanding systemic impacts still felt today. - We Were Children (Documentary, NFB)
Residential school Survivors’ stories told with courage and honesty.
Watch Here - United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)
Read More - Learn about the ten South Island First Nations
What’s Happening Around Town:
- South Island Powwow: September 30th, Celebrate Indigenous culture and resilience through song and dance at Royal Athletic Park. Free admission.
- Truth & Reconciliation Day Ride
September 30th, Family-friendly bike ride honoring survivors, ending in time for the Powwow Grand Entry. Free, ride-in. - An Evening for Truth & Reconciliation: September 29th at the Victoria Conservatory of Music with art, music, and dialogue. Free admission with ticket RSVP.
- Truth Before Reconciliation: SNIWWOC invites you to a Truth & Reconciliation evening on September 30, 2025, 6 – 8 pm. Celebrate Indigenous arts, hear from Jayce Harry and Aldeen Mason, enjoy a buffet dinner, and connect through storytelling and shared conversation.
- John Phillips Memorial Park Gathering: September 30th, Honour Survivors and Indigenous voices with a healing walk, cultural performances, and a live community art mural. Free, family-friendly.
Ways to Support & Donate
- South Island Indigenous Business Directory: Support Indigenous entrepreneurs by exploring and purchasing from the directory.
- Victoria Native Friendship Centre: Contribute to programs and services for Indigenous peoples.
- Orange Shirt Society: Support initiatives that educate and promote awareness about residential schools and the legacy of Orange Shirt Day.
- Educational Scholarships: Donate to help fund scholarships or bursaries supporting Indigenous youth education.
- Do the Work: Take time to educate yourself about the land you live on, its Indigenous history, and the communities to whom it belongs. Commit to listening, reading, and learning from Indigenous voices.
Helplines & Crisis Support
If you are a Survivor, family member, or need support at any time, help is available:
- KUU-US Crisis Line – 1-800-588-8717
24/7 crisis support for Indigenous peoples in British Columbia. - Hope for Wellness Helpline – 1-855-242-3310
Free, confidential support for Indigenous peoples across Canada. - Indian Residential School Crisis Line (24/7): 1-866-925-4419
