Flags lowered in honour of 215 Indigenous children who died at the Kamloops Indian Residential School

For updates on UVic's ongoing response, including details about a Sacred Fire ceremony, support and learning resources and a full presidential statement, see uvic.ca/215.

The university flags were lowered on May 28 in memory of the 215 children whose bodies have been discovered on the grounds of the Kamloops Indian Residential School in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation territory. They will remain lowered until further notice.

Statement from President Kevin Hall

The horrific discovery at the Kamloops Indian Residential School is just the latest in a long history of colonial violence at the hands of Canadian educational institutions. The Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc people and everyone who is mourning today are in my thoughts.

Today, we also remember and honour the families of the 1000’s of children who died while held at Residential Schools including the 202 children known to have lost their lives at the five Residential Schools on Vancouver Island.

As we approach National Indigenous History Month in June, it is important that we not turn away from the realities of Canada’s history and present. The University of Victoria and all educational institutions have a responsibility to acknowledge and address our role in perpetuating colonial systems.

Supports

We understand that this news will be difficult for many in our communities. If you need support, please reach out:

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