The heartbreaking news of the findings of Kamloops Residential School’s undocumented loss of over 215 children’s lives reiterates the fact that ‘school’ has not embodied a safe, nurturing place for Indigenous Peoples.
At Pearson we have made a renewed commitment to further our Reconciliation efforts and are actively engaging and building on the Indigenous Vision for the College and following the steps outlined in our Reconciliation Action Plan, adopted in November 2020.
There is a long journey ahead for healing. Reconciliation is ongoing, not a destination, and goes well beyond recognizing calendared events, or posting statements. We are committed to transforming Pearson College into a community of cultural safety for Indigenous people.
We would like to thank Lou-ann Neel, Curator, Indigenous Collections and A/Head of Indigenous Collections and Repatriation Department at the Royal BC Museum for creating and sharing her beautiful artwork, as pictured above in remembrance of the 215 lost children.
As a way forward and to remember and honour these 215 children, as well as the children across Canada who died while attending the residential school system, we are inviting individuals, families, as well as communities and organizations to take, share and adopt the #215pledge to inspire and spark change.