Residential School Statement

Statement from Brad Bain, Executive Director, Children’s Aid Society of the District of Thunder Bay on the discovery of remains of 215 children found at the former Kamloops Residential School

On behalf of the Children’s Aid Society of the District of Thunder Bay (CASTB), we are heartbroken to learn of the burial site of the 215 children on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School on Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation. This discovery is a stark reminder of this shameful era in Canadian history. It is also a reminder of our collective responsibility, to understand and address the horrible trauma suffered by First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. We cannot even begin to imagine the grief and pain that these families and communities have endured. 

A sacred fire was lit on 31 May 2021 at 3:00 p.m. and will remain lit for four days at the site of the former St. Joseph Indian Residential School in Thunder Bay (Pope John Paul II Senior Elementary School) to honour the spirits of the children and support the grieving and healing of families, communities, and survivors.

Everyone attending is asked to wear orange. Together, may we honour the lives of the survivors and never forget their stories.