1 min. reading

Statement on Kamloops Residential School

On May 27, 2021, the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation confirmed that the remains of 215 Indigenous children were discovered at various locations on the grounds of a former Kamloops, BC residential school.

In the days since this heartbreaking discovery at just one site of the unrecorded deaths that were described in the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we at CESO have joined with others across Canada in grieving for the children who were never able to return home to their families.

While we share in the immense sadness of this recent tragedy, the harmful and traumatic impacts of an unjust colonial legacy remain ever-present for generations of Indigenous communities.

We remain committed to our role in this reconciliation journey and continue to strive to foster inclusive economic growth and a better future for Indigenous Peoples across Canada.

The Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former students and those affected. Access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866 925-4419.

Respectfully,

Wendy Harris
CEO and President