September 25, 2026
September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, a time to honour the thousands of Indigenous children and families impacted by Canada's residential school system, including those who never returned home. Orange Shirt Day, inspired by residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, raises awareness of this painful history and the lasting impacts of residential schools.
At Health PEI, we recognize the importance of learning, reflection, and meaningful action on the path toward reconciliation. Staff are encouraged to participate in opportunities offered by the Public Service Commission (PSC), including its Pathways to Learning sessions focused on diversity, cultural competency, human rights, and inclusive leadership. These initiatives support ongoing efforts to build understanding, foster inclusion, and strengthen culturally safe workplaces across the public service.
On this day, we also honour past and present Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers. Despite generations of attempts to erase Indigenous cultures, they have safeguarded and shared sacred traditions, languages, knowledge, and ways of being. Their resilience, leadership, and wisdom continue to enrich our communities and guide our collective journey toward truth, healing, and reconciliation.
We encourage all staff to take time on September 30 to learn, reflect, and recognize the important role each of us plays in advancing reconciliation.
How to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30), Treaty Day (October 1), and Mi’kmaq History Month (October):
The following activities are organized and presented by the Indigenous Relations Secretariat in collaboration with Indigenous community partners and Public Service Commission.
Wear Orange to show that Every Child Matters
Wearing orange shirts on September 29 and 30 is a way to show support for resident school survivors and their families while acknowledging the legacy of residential schools.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Ceremony
On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 11:30am, Premier Lantz and the Mi’kmaq Leadership will lower the provincial flag in front of the Shaw Building to half-mast in honor of residential school survivors, their families and communities. The ceremony will begin with an Opening Prayer from a Mi’kmaw Elder followed by drumming, remarks and speeches.
Treaty Day – Flag Raising Ceremony
On Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. in the Public Administration Building (PAB) Courtyard, a ceremony will begin with an Opening Prayer from a Mi’kmaw Elder followed by remarks and speeches. There will also be a gift exchange between Premier Lantz and Mi’kmaw leadership, followed by flag raising and drumming.
Treaty Day Mawi’omi
On Thursday, October 1, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Lennox Island First Nation will host a Treaty Day Mawi’omi at the Eastlink Centre. The event is open to the public, and everyone is warmly encouraged to attend. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together, celebrate Treaty Day, and learn more about Mi’kmaq culture, traditions, and community.
Mi’kmaq History Month – Lunch & Learn Speaker Series
Throughout October, every Wednesday, (12-12:30pm) the Indigenous Relations Secretariat will host virtual lunch and learn sessions open to all public service employees on Mi’kmaq history, culture, and traditions featuring Mi’kmaq speakers sharing their stories and teachings. Stay tuned for more information.
KAIROS Blanket Exercise
The Indigenous Relations Secretariat, in partnership with the Public Service Commission (PSC), is hosting two KAIROS Blanket Exercises, in Charlottetown and Summerside. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. Please see the schedule below.
- Tuesday, October 6 (9am–12pm) College of Piping, Summerside
- Tuesday, October 20 (1pm – 4pm) Murchison Centre, Charlottetown
For more information and to register, please visit https://psc.gpei.ca/kairos-blanket-exercise.
Online Reconciliation Training Contest
During October's Mi’kmaq History Month, public service employees are encouraged to complete online reconciliation training. Names will be collected throughout the month of October for a draw to win a prize.
Smudging Protocols: Respecting Indigenous Traditions
A session will be offered on Smudging Protocols on October 13 from 1–2pm at Carriage House, Charlottetown. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. To register and for more information, please visit https://psc.gpei.ca/smudging-protocols-respecting-indigenous-traditions.
New License Plate introduced to recognize PEI Mi’kmaq
Prince Edward Island offers an optional specialty license plate honoring the Mi'kmaq community and Epekwitk's heritage. The recent Mi’kmaq license plate features a traditional hieroglyph from ancient Mi'kma'ki, with its curves representing the life cycle. This symbol represents the Mi’kmaq word L’nu (meaning "the people"). The license plate is available at Access PEI for passenger vehicles only.
Health care learning resources:
- New Practice Directive for Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, & Anti-Racism by the PEI College of Nursing and Midwifery
- A summary of learning tools on the Women & Diverse Peoples Hub
Ways to get involved during Mi’kmaq History Month
- Attend local events and programs sponsored by Indigenous organizations
- Learn more about the history and the ongoing legacy of residential schools
- Talk to colleagues, friends and family about reconciliation
- Read, watch and listen to Indigenous theme resources (PLS read) attached
Sincerely,
Laurae Kloschinsky
Interim, Health PEI CEO