The Municipality of Marmora and Lake has lowered their flags out of respect for the victims of the Kamloops Residential School.

Beginning today, Monday, May 31, the Municipality of Marmora and Lake will lower flags for 215 hours as a sign of collective mourning for the 215 children whose remains were found at the site of a former residential school in Kamloops, BC.

The remains of 215 children were discovered in a mass grave through the use of ground-penetrating radar. Officials say the school, which opened in 1890, was the largest in Canada’s residential school system. These schools were operational from 1831 to 1996. It is estimated that over 4000 children died while in these schools.

We recognize the tragic, heartbreaking devastation that the Canadian residential school system has inflicted upon so many, and our thoughts are with those who are in mourning.

We extend our sympathies to survivors, families and our First Nation Communities – for the lives lost and families forever changed by the systemic abuse experienced at residential schools.

The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former Residential School students and those affected. Access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1 866 925-4419.

#everychildmatters

#215