Every Sept. 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a federal statutory day honouring Indigenous people, communities, and survivors of Canada’s residential school system.

In April 2023, Queen’s approved a Policy on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation which suspends all academic activity — including classes — in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. When Sept. 30 falls on a weekend, this suspension occurs on the observance day assigned by the federal government.

This year all academic activities are suspended on Oct. 2, 2023. This applies to all faculties and schools at the university.

As per the policy, some exceptions may apply for some activities — like clinical placements, field work, and work placements — that are scheduled in coordination with external agencies or organizations.

Each faculty and school is encouraged to support learning, reflection, and observation of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and the Office of Indigenous Initiatives and Centre for Teaching and Learning offer relevant educational resources.