Yesterday, it was announced that 171 potential grave sites were discovered at the former St. Mary’s Residential School site in Kenora. Five former residential schools covering six sites were located within Treaty #3 territory, including St. Mary’s, which operated from 1897 to 1972 and was attended by children from across the Treaty #3 territory and beyond.
The Rainy River District School Board wishes to express our heartfelt sorrow and sympathies to everyone affected by this discovery, especially our students and families who may be directly affected.
This is yet another reminder of the horrific impacts and generational harm of the Canadian Residential School System. It reminds us of our continued work to educate and to raise awareness of the tragic history and legacy of residential school system.
Please know that our school clinicians are available for students requiring support. You can also contact the Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419. In addition, culturally relevant mental health support services for members of the Indigenous community are accessible through Hope for Wellness (hopeforwellness.ca).
Letter to Parents - January 18, 2023