Statement of Support for Wauzhushk Onigum Nation

TRIGGER WARNING: The acknowledgement below contains sensitive and distressing information.

January 18, 2023

Today, our hearts are heavy as we acknowledge the devastating findings on the grounds of the former St. Mary’s Indian Residential School in Kenora. Wauzhushk Onigum Nation announced the discovery of over 170 anomalies during a search for unmarked graves with ground penetrating sonar.  

This announcement highlights the magnitude of the task ahead for families and communities as they find all their missing children who died due to the violence and neglect of residential schools. Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is committed to the work of truth and reconciliation in our schools and we continue to give our unwavering support to all communities. KPDSB wishes to take the time to truly listen to the stories of Canada’s Indigenous Peoples, walk beside them in seeking true reconciliation, and to benefit from their wisdom.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Wauzhushk Onigum Nation, Survivors and their families and communities at this time.

A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former students and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419.

Mental health counselling and crisis support is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Hope for Wellness hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or online at www.hopeforwellness.ca.