Latest news with #shíshálhNation
CBC
2 days ago
- CBC
shíshálh Nation confirms 41 more potential unmarked graves identified
shíshálh Nation confirms 41 more potential unmarked graves identified on the grounds of a residential school.
Global News
2 days ago
- Global News
B.C. First Nation says 41 additional unmarked graves found at residential school site
Warning: This story deals with disturbing subject matter that may upset and trigger some readers. Discretion is advised. A B.C. First Nation says it has found an additional 41 unmarked graves at the site of a former residential school. The shíshálh Nation said in a post on its website that it is saddened by the findings, which were identified by archaeologists, bringing the community total to 81. The shíshálh Nation announced in 2023 that the first results of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) scans around the area of the former school found 81 unmarked graves. 'We are deeply saddened, but these numbers are not a surprise to us. We have always believed our Elders. This wasn't a school, it wasn't a choice, and the children who attended were stolen,' Chief Lenora Joe said in a statement. Story continues below advertisement 'We didn't need the GPR to prove this happened; we always had enough proof to know.' 0:54 40 unmarked graves found at residential school site near Sechelt, B.C. According to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, St. Augustine's Residential School opened in 1904 under Roman Catholic administration and was funded by the federal government. Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy The original building was destroyed in a fire, but was then rebuilt. In 1923, parents withdrew their children from the school to protest the harsh discipline, inadequate diet and the poor quality of education. A new principal was appointed after the protest and the school was in operation until June 1975. The children who were forced to attend St. Augustine's Residential School Institution came from 53 other communities, most in B.C., but some as far away as Saskatchewan, according to the shíshálh Nation. Story continues below advertisement 'As we share this, we want to protect our people and our community, and the other Nations whose children are directly connected to this,' said Joe. 'We are not taking ownership of the trauma because that was done to us, but we are taking ownership of our healing, our message, and our future.' shíshálh Nation is working with the 53 other Nations whose children attended the institution and is committed to ensuring all Nations whose children attended are included. According to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, five children died while attending the school. The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line (1-800-721-0066) is available 24 hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their residential school experience. Support is also available through the 24-hour National Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419. The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers culturally competent counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous peoples experiencing trauma, distress, strong emotions and painful memories. The line can be reached anytime toll-free at 1-855-242-3310.
Hamilton Spectator
19-07-2025
- General
- Hamilton Spectator
Desiree Harris named new District Principal of Indigenous Learning for SD46
The Sunshine Coast School District (SD46) has appointed Desiree Harris as its new District Principal of Indigenous Learning, effective Aug. 1. Her appointment follows the retirement of longtime leader Kerry Mahlman. According to a district release, Harris was selected after a national search led by Leaders International and a selection committee that included representatives from the shíshálh Nation and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw. The district credited the committee's 'insights and unique perspectives' in helping choose a leader aligned with Indigenous values and vision. Harris, who is Michif, Red River Métis, brings over a decade of classroom experience and years in leadership roles focused on Indigenous education, equity, and curriculum development. She holds a master's degree in Indigenous studies, with a thesis that used Indigenous research methodologies to explore student experiences and supports that foster respect and wellbeing. 'I am grateful to live and work as a guest on the traditional, unceded lands and waters of shíshálh Nation and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw,' Harris said in the release. 'I carry a deep sense of responsibility to walk alongside shíshálh, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students, families, and communities to ensure their voices, cultures, and rights are valued and upheld in our schools.' Superintendent Kate Kerr welcomed Harris to the role, praising her 'dedication, authenticity, and vision,' and thanked Mahlman for her 'extraordinary leadership and commitment to Indigenous learning over the years.' Jordan Copp is Coast Reporter's civic and Indigenous affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
