The smell of sage and sweetgrass floated in the air Monday over a mostly sombre ceremony in Ottawa to reflect on the legacy of residential schools and remember those who survived — and the thousands who didn't.

"We've got tomorrow, we'll live for a brighter day," sang Diyet & the Love Soldiers, performing their song We're Still Here while dignitaries and children alike got up on their feet and started dancing.

Every year on Sept. 30, commemorative events are held to remember the Indigenous children who died while being forced to attend residential schools, those who survived and the families and communities who are still affected by the lasting trauma.

Sept. 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada — a day to reflect on this country's dark past with the residential school system.

Monday marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation across Canada — a time to honour the Indigenous peoples impacted by the brutal legacy of residential schools.

A key event being held in Edmonton is the fourth annual Orange Shirt Day Run/Walk Every Child Matters, which is a run/walk in support and awareness of those who did not survive the residential school era and those who did. This event aims to raise funds for local grassroots organizations, Orangeshirtday.org, and support Indigenous athletes.

Canada is marking its fourth National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Monday, September 30, 2024. Different organizations, companies, and

Torontonians gathered at Nathan Phillips Square outside city hall to commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Jordan Carrier, an Indigenous woman who brought her children and a grandchild to the square,