We are deeply saddened by the news of the discovery of unmarked graves by the Cowessess First Nation. On Thursday, June 24, an initial discovery of 751 unmarked graves were made near the former Marieval Residential School which was in operation from 1899 to 1997. This news comes less than a month after the unmarked remains of 215 children were discovered near Kamloops, B.C.
In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission delivered its final report which included 94 specific calls to action. Actions 71 through 76 specifically address Missing Children and Burial Information including unearthing burial sites. “Now more than ever, we need to take action and commit to justice to address the horrific treatment of our Indigenous Peoples,” stated Tom Reid, IBEW International Vice-President for the First District (Canada). “We stand in solidarity with all of our Indigenous communities during this very difficult time.”
A 24-hour national crisis line has been setup for those who require support:
1-866-925-4419.
Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission 94 Calls to Action here: http://trc.ca/assets/pdf/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf
Read the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples here:
https://www.un.org/development/desa/indigenouspeoples/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2018/11/UNDRIP_E_web.pdf
Make a donation to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society of BC:
https://www.irsss.ca/donate