I am reaching out to our College community to share my thoughts on the very difficult and troubling truths that continue to emerge with regard to former residential schools in Canada.

As I said in my address to our graduates last week, the discoveries of the unmarked graves of hundreds of Indigenous children at former residential schools remind us of the urgent need for us to actively and meaningfully pursue truth and reconciliation, and why we must grow and push our society forward; as that is the essence of lifelong learning – both individually and collectively.

As we approach Canada Day, I hope you will take time to reflect on these unsettling truths, and acknowledge and share in the profound grief that Indigenous people – including many who are our colleagues and classmates — are experiencing. There is no more important time to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities, offer support, educate ourselves, and strengthen our commitment to inclusion, equity and social justice.

The flags at our campuses remain lowered to honour the lives and spirits of those who died at the former residential school in Saskatchewan. Members of our College community who need support can reach out to Health Wellness and Accessibility Services at [email protected] (students) or the Employee and Family Assistance Program at 1-800-663-1142 (employees). National Indian Residential School Crisis Line can also be accessed at 1-866-925-4419.