Taya Fast

Gathering held to commemorate children found at former Kamloops residential school

Jun 1, 2021 | 3:36 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Hundreds of people wore orange, sang, and drummed at a gathering to honor those who were lost in residential schools and those who are still with us, on Monday evening.

Many community members were in attendance including School District 57 faculty.

The gathering started with words of prayer and speeches before the group was lead in song and dance. Many tears were shed throughout the demonstration.

This all comes after the Tk’emlups Tey Secwepemc announced the tragic discovery of hundreds of human remains near the former Kamloops Indian residential school. The bodies of more than two hundred children were found using a ground-penetrating radar specialist.

Since the discovery, memorials have been set up around Canada including right here in Prince George. Kids’ shoes and toys now line the steps of Prince George City Hall to represent each child who was found.

Another gathering was held last Sunday at the former Lejac Residential school. Lejac is located west of Prince George. The school closed in 1976.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the recent news – the national Indian Residential School Crisis Line is set up to provide support for residential school students and those affected. Counseling and support are available 24-hours a day at 1-866-925-4419.