You may have noticed the Survivors’ Flag displayed during City events, commemorations or learning opportunities related to Truth and Reconciliation.
More than a symbol, the flag serves as an expression of remembrance that honours residential school Survivors, as well as the families, communities and generations impacted by the residential school system in Canada.
The flag was created through a national collaboration with residential school Survivors from across Canada. Every element was carefully selected by Survivors to reflect experiences of loss, resilience, healing and hope.
The design includes symbolic images such as parents and children representing families separated by residential schools, seeds beneath the ground honouring children who never returned home, and a Tree of Peace that symbolizes unity, protection and renewal.
Other elements, including a cedar branch, eagle feather, Métis sash, inuksuit and celestial symbols such as the sun, moon and stars, reflect Indigenous cultures, teachings, healing and connection.
The Survivors’ Flag is a reminder of the lasting impacts of residential schools and the strength of those who endured them. It also represents a shared commitment to remembering the truth, honouring Survivors and continuing the work of reconciliation.
Survivors' flag raising at City Hall on Sept. 25, 2026
Learn more about the meaning behind each element of the flag and the Survivors who contributed to its design at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s Survivors’ Flag webpage.
This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we invite residents to come together to listen, learn, and reflect:
- Wanuskewin National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering - September 30 from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Wanuskewin will have presentations, community art sessions and speakers throughout the day. Visit their website for more information.
- Saskatoon Tribal Council's Every Child Matters Powwow - September 29-30 - Grand entries will take place at 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on both Tuesday, Sept. 29 and Wednesday, Sept. 30. Visit the Saskatoon Tribal Council's website for more details.
- Third Annual Orange Shirt Day Run/Walk- September 30- If you're a runner or walker and would like to participate in Orange Shirt Day with a run/walk to honour those who did not survive the residential school system, registration for this event is still open. This event aims to raise funds for the Orangeshirtday.org
