June 24, 2021
We are devastated by the revelation shared today by the Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan of 751 unmarked graves at a site nearby the former Marieval Indian Residential School.
Our thoughts are with all those families and communities who have suffered and continue to suffer as a consequence of the residential school system, and who are once again traumatized by the fresh pain of these tragic revelations.
This truth demonstrates the reality and horror of the Indian Residential School system, and all that it represents. A truth among many that must be recognized, acknowledged and atoned for before moving forward along the path to reconciliation.
May we honour their lives and the survivors, and never forget their stories.
Please take a moment to read the University’s statement here, and our statement on the Missing Children of the Kamloops Indian Residential School.
Dermot Kelleher
Professor, Department of Medicine
Dean, Faculty of Medicine
Vice-President, Health
The University of British Columbia