PAGC looks for unity following white supremacist incident in British Columbia  

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In 2021, the Tk’emlúps band said that ground-penetrating radar had identified 215 potential burial sites for Indigenous children who died at the Kamloops residential school.  

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Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission estimates that more than 6,000 children died while at residential schools, but the number is likely much higher because not all schools kept complete records.  

In Prince Albert alone, at least 18 children died at the local residential school between 1898 and 1949. Their names, and the names of other children who are confirmed to have died at school, are listed on the National Truth and Reconciliation website.  

While ground-penetrating radar is accurate at determining where the ground has been disturbed, which happens when it is dug up for a grave. It does not confirm the presence of a body, and results vary depending on the type of soil.  

Many Indigenous communities view the graves as sacred, which is why radar was used to identify possible locations rather than disturbing the graves by digging them up.  

Hardlotte said the organization he leads is standing with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and he would like to see people from the community of Prince Albert stand with them too by turning out for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events to be held tomorrow at their Urban Services building near Gateway Mall, starting at 10 am.   

The day will include an opening prayer and honour song, remarks, a presentation on the meaning of Orange Shirt Day, lunch and afternoon entertainment. 

“This is a time to come together,” said Grand Chief Hardlotte. “We invite everyone to wear orange and join us in honouring survivors.” 

PAGC is also encouraging people to deepen their understanding of the residential school system and learn about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

“Reconciliation begins with truth,” he said. “We honour Survivors by carrying that truth forward. Every child matters, not just on Sept. 30, but every day.”

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Survivors and those affected by the residential school system can access 24-hour support through the Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419.

susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com