On September 30, the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada supports Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, to honour the history of residential school victims, survivors, and their families. We are committed to the process of reconciliation at home and across Asia.
Indigenous peoples make up five per cent of the world’s population (approximately 300 million) in over 90 countries. The Asia Pacific region is home to the largest number of Indigenous communities and represents 70 per cent of the global Indigenous population. Despite these communities' rich ancestral knowledge, spiritual connections, and environmental conservation efforts, they continue to face tremendous challenges in their fight for recognition, self-determination, justice, and reconciliation.
As we take pause to observe Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, APF Canada stands in solidarity with Indigenous peoples in Canada and across Asia, honouring the strength, dignity and perseverance of intergenerational survivors. In Canada, September 30 is an opportunity to learn about the history of Canadian residential schools, and their continued impact on First Nations, Métis, and Inuit People’s today. In observance, we encourage Canadians to explore local educational programming for Truth and Reconciliation Week (Sep 22-26, 2025) read the Truth and Reconciliation Report, talk with your friends and family about the sombre legacy of residential schools, or simply take a moment of quiet reflection.
We also encourage Canadians to consider the larger impact of colonialism in Canada and the Asia Pacific region, and explore the history of Indigenous Peoples on an international scale. Truth and reconciliation for Indigenous communities is a global project that requires active participation and on-going education.
