#EVERYCHILDMATTERS

Incomprehensible. Inexcusable.

Our hearts are heavy and we join in grief with the Tk'emlups Secwe̓pemc First Nation, residential school survivors and their families and all Indigenous Peoples of the land now called Canada in the wake of the news that a mass grave of #215children that was recently discovered on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School.

That school closed in 1978. The last residential school closed in 1996. As the @oncanadaproject said in a recent post, this isn’t some distant history. We should be collectively grieving this atrocity as a country.

We acknowledge the deep-rooted grief, trauma and loss that has been caused by Canada’s residential schools and other colonial systems and policies and encourage all non-Indigenous residents to join us as we pause, reflect, and undertake the significant work needed to bring about change.

If you’re looking for a way to help, consider supporting the Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) and Urban Native Youth Association @UNYAyouth

IRSSS Emergency Crisis Line: - 1-800-721-0066

The National Indian Residential School 24-Hour Crisis Line (1-866-925-4419) also provides support for former students and those affected. Support is available for anyone affected by the lingering effects of residential schools, and those who are triggered by the latest reports.

Please share and amplify.

Stand tall. Stay strong. Show love. Support local.