This day is a time for reflection, learning, and action. It is also a reminder of our shared responsibility to understand the painful history and lasting impacts of residential schools, as a vital component of the reconciliation process.

Wearing orange on September 30

Observed annually on September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coincides with Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots initiative to honour survivors of residential schools and promote the message that “Every Child Matters.”

The significance of the orange shirt originates with Phyllis Webstad, who shared how, at six years old, the brand-new orange shirt her grandmother gave her was taken away on her first day at a residential school. That moment came to symbolize the loss of culture, identity, and freedom experienced by generations of Indigenous children.

By wearing orange on this day, we recognize the lasting impact of residential schools and show our commitment to a future where Indigenous voices, cultures, and communities are valued and respected.

Support is available for anyone affected:

• Former residential school students can access health and support services by calling 1-866-925-4419.
• Indigenous Peoples across Canada can reach the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310.

Reflection and learning

At Pacific Blue Cross, we invite our employees, members, and partners to take this day to reflect and learn more about Indigenous histories and cultures:

• Our team members are given time off on September 30 to engage in personal reflection and learning about the cultures and heritage of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.
• We offer a free, accessible Indigenous Awareness e-learning module, developed with the First Nations Health Authority. This training is part of our employee onboarding and is open to members, employers, providers, and the wider public.
• Across the country, there are commemorative events, cultural activities and educational broadcasts available to help Canadians learn, reflect and stand in solidarity. Information about events in British Columbia can be found online.

Our role as a health benefits provider

As BC’s health benefits society, we believe we have a responsibility to help address health gaps and improve access to equitable care. The legacy of residential schools and systemic inequities continues to impact Indigenous communities today.

We are committed to advancing health equity through:

• Our partnership with First Nations Health Authority: We administer health benefits for First Nations communities across BC, reducing administrative barriers and supporting culturally-safe care.
• Embedding DEI in our work: Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy drives initiatives like Indigenous awareness training for all our staff, inclusive benefit design, and internal audits to guide our hiring and workplace practices. We are proud to be an Indigenous Works Employer of Choice.
• Supporting initiatives for Indigenous health: The Pacific Blue Cross Health Foundation provides funding and support for programs led by Indigenous communities that focus on healing, wellness and cultural safety.

A shared commitment

Truth and reconciliation is not a single day, it’s a continuous journey. At Pacific Blue Cross, we know that reconciliation requires sustained commitment. By reflecting, listening and acting together, we can help build a more equitable future. You can read our full statement on Truth and Reconciliation for more information about our commitment.

Learn more about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation