RDOS extends condolences to Indigenous neighbours

News Article

On behalf of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) Board of Directors and staff, deepest condolences are extended to our syilx Okanagan friends, family, and neighbours experiencing tragic loss once again after the discovery of remains on the grounds surrounding the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School near Williams Lake First Nation. The former Residential School was operational from 1891 to 1981.

This discovery was undertaken with a newly developed community cultural process with the honour and respect for the children and survivors. Through this initial investigation, the research and evidence have shown there are 93 unmarked remains within a 14-hectare area. The discovery of the remains highlights the damaging and lasting impacts of the residential school system and its intergenerational impacts on Indigenous families and communities.

“This is another painful reminder of the trauma caused by the residential school system,” says RDOS Chair Mark Pendergraft. “The RDOS extends its support to our Indigenous neighbours as they mourn and honour those lost.”

Support is available for anyone affected by residential schools. You can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour Indian Residential School Survivors Society crisis support line at 1-800-721-0066.

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contacts:

Erick Thompson

Andrea Rendall

 

RDOS Toll Free

RDOS Communications                 

RDOS Communications

 

1-877-610-3737

250-490-4211    

250-490-4147

 

 

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