Recently, EIPS staff and students honoured and remembered the 215 children found in mass and unmarked graves from Kamloops Residential School. Collectively, the Division grieved with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc. Now, it's processing the news from Cowessess First Nation—the discovery of 751 unmarked graves at the former Marieval Residential School in Saskatchewan.

Tragically, there will be more grim discoveries and announcements. As such, EIPS is working on how to mindfully and respectfully unpack the ongoing trauma, and the trauma yet to come, for staff and students. EIPS continues to stand in solidarity with survivors, their families and their communities.

HOW TO HELP

For those wondering how to show support, there are many ways. Below are a few suggestions:

• Learn about the Indian residential school system, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and the TRC's Calls to Action. Read more 
• Donate to organizations that support survivors and their families, such as:
  • Indian Residential School Survivors Society
  • Legacy of Hope Foundation
  • First Nations Child and Family Caring Society
• Learn about the University of Alberta's Institute of Prairie and Indigenous Archaeology—particularly the work of Kisha Supernant who is the institute's director and an associated professor at the university. Supernant also works with Nations to find the stolen children.
• Read the child-friendly version of the TRC's Calls to Action with your family. 

FOR SUPPORT CONTACT

• Indian Residential School Survivors and Family Hotline: 1-866-925-4419
• Native Youth Crisis Hotline 1-877-209-1266
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6968
• Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 (text 454645)