Flags Lowered to Acknowledge Findings by Wauzhushk Onigum Nation
Posted:
Campus:
We are devastated to learn of another tragic discovery. Wauzhushk Onigum Nation has detected more than 170 anomalies during a search for unmarked graves at the site of a former residential school in Kenora, Ontario. These “plausible burials” were located in cemetery grounds connected with the former St. Mary’s Indian Residential School.
We share in the sadness and frustration of Indigenous Peoples and communities still affected by the generational trauma of cultural genocide. As a centre of learning that operates on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe people, signatories to the Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850, Treaty 3 of 1873, and Treaty 9 of 1905-1906, we will continue our commitment to dismantling systemic racism, and teaching our faculty, staff and students about the lasting effects of settler colonialism.
Our hearts go out to the children, their families and the many survivors of residential schools who continue to be deeply affected by this terrible part of our history.
Every child matters.
In memory and honour of the children, our flags will be lowered to half-mast for the remainder of the week.
To review the latest information about the finding of unmarked graves across the country, and learn more about the history of Indian Residential Schools, visit:
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations
Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs
For Support:
Students – Counselling services are available for students by calling (807) 475-6618 or booking an appointment online at www.confederationcollege.ca/appointments. Get more information about our student counselling services.
Employees – Support for employees can be accessed with our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). Employees can also access EFAP supports at any time by calling 1-800-387-4766 or visiting the Morneau Shepell website: www.workhealthlife.com. Get more information about how to access our EFAP.
All – Support can be accessed through the National Indian Residential School Crisis Line by calling 1-866-925-4419.