A message from Indigenous Elder Joanne Dallaire
Candles are lit during a vigil in Toronto on Sunday, May 30, 2021, for the 215 Indigenous children whose remains were uncovered on the grounds of a former residential school near Kamloops, B.C. Photo courtesy of Chris Young/Canadian Press.
The news of the remains of 215 Indigenous children discovered in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc near Kamloops, British Columbia, is only the latest horrific and painful lived history we’ve seen that has been buried. A legacy of the unspoken inhumane treatment of Indigenous children, families and communities destroyed by heartless beliefs of the time. Some of these beliefs continue on many levels today.
The loss of a child carves a deep and lasting scar that never heals, impacting family and community members alike. It is a reminder of all that has been lost, never to be regained.
I pray for healing and reconciliation of a past that is too present. I hope for a future that is more humane and celebrates the many sacrifices and accomplishments of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island.
My heart is heavy and I ask for us all to support each other as we deal with yet another example of how judging others as being unworthy never works. Our challenge is to find love and compassion for all.
It is important to remember that despite this horrific news, you are not alone. Call upon your ancestors, spirit helpers and clan for support. Resources and support are also available remotely from Ryerson through the Medical Centre, the Centre for Student Development and Counselling, and Ryerson Aboriginal Student Services (RASS). I am available by email at jdallaire@torontomu.ca if you’d like to chat.
In loving memory of all the little ones.
Joanne Dallaire
Elder (Ke Shay Hayo) and Senior Advisor, Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation