215 is not just a number: In solidarity with the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation. Grieving along with our communities.

We are heartbroken by the terrible losses that came out of Kamloops, British Columbia over the weekend. We stand in solidarity with the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation and grieve along with our communities.

215 is not just a number. 215 represents precious, sacred, Indigenous children. It represents the violent loss of Indigenous futures, the painful silence experienced by families who continue to go without answers or justice.

Indigenous communities across Canada continue to live the traumatic intergenerational impacts of residential school systems, and genocide. No formal apology, investigation, reform, or recommendation will return these lives to their families and communities. You are not alone in your grief. Indigenous lives matter, yesterday, today, forever.

In memory of these, and all lost Indigenous children, and to mark National Indigenous History Month, The 519 will be directing 25% of unrestricted funds raised through the month of June to support 2SLGBTQ Indigenous-led initiatives, and we will continue to do the work of reconciliation/decolonization in partnership with Indigenous communities year-round.

• A National Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former students and those affected. Emotional and crisis referral services can be accessed by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419.
• The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) can be contacted toll-free at 1-800-721-0066.