FNHL statement on first anniversary of #215

A powerful memorial on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery in memory of the 215 children whose unmarked graves were discovered on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. Credit: Tina Taphouse via Twitter

The First Nations House of Learning remembers and acknowledges the first anniversary of the tragic news that 215 unmarked graves were discovered on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School on the territory of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc. We feel sorrow and sadness surrounding these children’s deaths and for those whose unmarked graves have been discovered since then at other former residential school sites across the country. We send our condolences to all affected by these results, especially families and communities impacted by these actions of genocide, and call for the truth to be heard. In remembering their short lives, we condemn this country’s former Indian residential school system and the ensuing darkness left in the wake of this appalling story in Canadian history. We ask Canadians to remember all the children who attended them with dignity and respect, and as we move forward to find healing and love together, and to never forget that every child matters.

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The following resources and hotlines are open for those in need of support:
KUU-US Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
Indian Residential School Survivors and Family: 1-800-721-0066 or 24hr Crisis Line 1-866-925-4419
Aboriginal Wellness Program: 604-675-2551 or 1-866-884-0888
Canadian Mental Health Association: 1-800-555-8222
HeretoHelp: 1-800-661-2121
First Nations Health Authority – Mental Health Benefit: https://www.fnha.ca/benefits/mental-health
Métis Nation BC – Mental Health Services: https://www.mnbc.ca/mnbc-ministries/mental-health/
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310