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Acknowledging and grieving the loss of 215 children

Statement from Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital

Content warning: Descriptions of child abuse and Indigenous-directed violence.
 

We were horrified to learn, with the rest of the country, and the world, that 215 missing children were found in a mass grave at the site of a former residential school in Kamloops, BC. This institution was run by the Catholic Church from 1890 to 1969 and subsequently operated as a day school by the Canadian government until it closed in 1978. These 215 children, like approximately 150,000 other First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, were forcibly taken from their families and communities and sent away to residential schools. The last residential school closed just 25 years ago in 1996. Many children were severely abused physically, psychologically, spiritually, and sexually. A significant number of children never saw home again. We know that the correct words to describe these actions are state-sanctioned violence and genocide.

As many Indigenous Canadians have pointed out, this is not just a shameful part of Canada’s past, but a horrifying reality of the Canada we live in today. Indigenous Canadians are disproportionately and negatively affected by the social determinants of health.

Holland Bloorview supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s seven Call to Action items that specifically address the current unacceptable gaps in health outcomes. As a teaching hospital, we know that our role begins with equipping the next generation of health care professionals with the knowledge and context to provide compassionate, culturally sensitive care to all clients and families, and investing in Indigenous-identifying health care leaders of tomorrow. Our Indigenous summer research student program is one small step in this direction. We have invested in Indigenous Cultural Safety education for our team including the entire senior management team and are continuing to roll this program out across our hospital. We further commit to action in areas of system partnership, employee education and addressing healthcare inequities. We acknowledge that there is much more work for our hospital to do.

Our hearts go out to all affected by this news and grieving this immense loss. Our flag will be flying at half mast for 215 hours, one hour for each of the precious lives stolen. After these 215 hours, our commitment to Indigenous communities will continue.

To those grieving, please monitor your mental health at this time and seek support if you choose to.  See below for resources.
 

Available resources:


To learn more about Indigenous history in Canada: