Flags flown at half-mast in HPEDSB schools to honour deceased Indigenous children
All Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB) schools and the Education Centre will be flying flags at half-mast to honour the memory of the 215 Indigenous children whose remains were recently discovered on the grounds of the Kamloops Indian Residential School in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation Territory.
Beginning today, HPEDSB flags will be flown at half-mast for a total of 215 hours – one hour for every child whose life was lost, until June 8, 2021.
Our condolences and deepest sympathies are offered to the survivors, families and First Nations communities impacted by this lamentable tragedy. The discovery of the mass grave is a troubling reminder for survivors of the residential schools, and their families, of the trauma they experienced. Students and families who are distressed by this news, or in need of resources, are asked to contact their school for support.
HPEDSB is dedicated to continue educating our school communities about the disgraceful legacy of residential schools in Canada and the ongoing need for Truth and Reconciliation with Indigenous people.
#EveryChildMatters