June 4, 2021
We would like to extend deep condolences and sympathies to the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation on the discovery of 215 children on the site of a former residential school in Kamloops British Columbia.
The discovery of these children is a powerful yet painful reminder of our history. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission research indicates that at least 3,213 children are reported to have died over 140 years of operation at over 150 Residential School locations.
No words can describe the scale of pain and trauma that Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Inuit, Métis) have suffered as a result of Canada’s Residential School system and continue to suffer from systemic racism.
May we all keep this part of our history as a reminder and a beacon in front of us as we work with our Rotary ideals to bring peace and equality to all.
June is National Indigenous History Month, we ask that you support this national time of mourning to honour these children. HIP (Honouring Indigenous People) is asking everyone to wear orange. Let’s walk together and show our support.
PLEASE READ THIS BOOKLET ABOUT THE INDIAN RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL SYSTEM.