The Court of Appeal, Supreme Court and Provincial Court of British Columbia will be closed on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the lasting impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous Peoples, families and communities and broader relationships within Canadian society. We honour residential school Survivors and remember the children who never returned home. It is also a time to reflect on the courts’ commitment to advancing reconciliation. The Court of Appeal, Supreme Court and Provincial Court recognize that reconciliation is part of the ongoing work of pursuing a justice system that is inclusive and respectful to all. While each court has an independent role within the justice system, all three courts are committed to advancing reconciliation through their respective work.

Court of Appeal

Since publishing its Reconciliation Framework and Action Plan in 2025, the Court of Appeal has continued to advance reconciliation through education, relationship-building and improving access to justice. This has included ongoing education for judges and staff on truth and reconciliation, as well as learning and relationship-building with First Nations communities and Indigenous justice organizations. The Court also published a practice directive addressing Indigenous practices and ceremonies in the courtroom. More information about the Court of Appeal's engagement with truth and reconciliation is available in the Court of Appeal’s Annual Report.

Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is actively considering its role in advancing reconciliation. In 2024, the Court established a Reconciliation Working Group (RWG). To date, the RWG has focused on (1) obtaining input from Indigenous Peoples and organizations, the bar and the public on how the Court can advance reconciliation; and (2) judicial education. In 2025, the RWG sought input from Indigenous organizations, bar associations and members of the public on ways the Court could advance reconciliation and further access to justice for Indigenous Peoples. In 2026, the RWG is developing (and will be engaging on) a framework for taking appropriate steps to advance the objectives of truth and reconciliation, consistent with the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan.

Provincial Court

The Provincial Court is committed to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. In 2025, it adopted a Reconciliation Framework that focuses on learning, building relationships, and improving access to justice. Judges receive ongoing education about Indigenous matters. The Court also works closely with Indigenous communities through restorative justice programs, ten Indigenous sentencing courts, and the Aboriginal Family Healing Court Conference. In addition, the Court holds circuit court in Indigenous and remote communities and meets with Indigenous organizations and community members to improve access to justice. More information is available on the Court’s Reconciliation webpage, and in the Court’s Reconciliation Framework.