Recent Findings at Kamloops Residential School Site

Brant Community Healthcare System extends our deepest condolences and joins the country in grieving the tragic news of the discovery of remains at the site of the former Kamloops Residential School in Kamloops, British Columbia.

All BCHS flags have been lowered as a sign of collective mourning for the 215 children whose remains were found at the site. The flags will remain lowered for nine days, representing one hour for each child whose life was taken. In addition, there is a list of several available supports below.

We are deeply saddened by this discovery and our thoughts are with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation and Indigenous communities across Canada. This discovery is further evidence of the cruelty at residential schools in Canada and demonstrates the struggles faced by Indigenous communities when they share their lived experience.

The residential school experience removed Indigenous children from their families and stripped them of their culture, language and identity, creating lasting harm that many families suffer still.

At BCHS, we must continue the work led by the Indigenous Cultural Safety Committee (ICSC) to ensure health equity for Indigenous people and that their identities are recognized, valued and affirmed in our hospitals.

Together, we are developing better ways to support the health needs of Indigenous people, remaining ever conscious of the traumatic legacy caused by residential schools. We will continue to work with Indigenous communities to build a local health care system that respects and supports every person, every day.

Sincerely,

Paul Emerson - Chair, BCHS Board of Directors

Dr. David McNeil - President and CEO, BCHS

Resources

• National Indian Residential School Crisis Line 24 hours a day: 1-866-925-4419
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
• The Missing Children Project
• Tips for adults supporting children and youth after distressing events