Mourning the Loss of Lives at Residential Schools

June 26, 2021
 
We were deeply saddened to learn the most recent news of the discovery of more unmarked graves at another former residential school late this past week. The tragic discovery of 751 unmarked graves at the former Marieval Residential School site in Cowessess, Saskatchewan is devastating.

Our hearts are filled with grief and sorrow over the abuse and mistreatment of children and the loss of life that occurred at these institutions. Each new discovery is a painful, shameful reminder of the atrocities committed against Indigenous peoples in residential schools.
We offer our sincere sympathies to all members of Indigenous communities across Canada and to all who are mourning this senseless loss of so many lives.

The Wellington Catholic District School Board is committed to the Calls to Action brought forward through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We are committed to ensuring our students and staff learn about the truths of our history and the unjust treatment experienced by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples in our country so that we can continue to work together to bring about reconciliation. For more information about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, please visit: http://www.trc.ca/
 
For staff, students, or families seeking additional resources at this time, there are mental health resources available to support ongoing healing through our Mental Health Services team who will be available this summer. As well, families can contact the Indian Residential Schools Survivor Society 1-800-721-0066 or the IRS National Crisis Line 1-866 -925 -4419 for support.
 
M. Glazier
Director of Education