Dear Prime Minister Trudeau, Minister Miller and Minister Bennet,

June is National Indigenous History Month. Unfortunately, we begin this month with the horrifying discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children at a former Kamloops

residential school on Friday, May 28, 2021. Residential schools systemically undermined and traumatized First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures across Canada. These institutions devastated families for generations and continue their impact today, and into the future. Canada's past regarding the treatment of Indigenous people is shameful. Let's use these lessons to inform our present and future generations about the importance of equity, inclusion and full acceptance of all cultures and people.

The Superior North Catholic District School Board acknowledges this tragedy and we ask for actions to be taken. First the establishment of a National Day of Mourning. Secondly, we are calling for the federal government to investigate other former residential school sites and finally, to put more sustainable funding towards healing initiatives. It is up to school boards, educators and all Canadians to advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples, act upon and respect the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and continue to care for Indigenous students, ensuring that Indigenous culture is reflected in our schools and our everyday lives.

For those who are seeking support after hearing this tragic news, it is available through the Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419. In addition, culturally

relevant mental health support services for members of the Indigenous community are accessible through Hope For Wellness.

Download the letter sent to The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada; The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services; and The Honourable Carolyn Bennet, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations.