STM President issues statement following Residential School burial site discovery

The St. Thomas More College (STM) community is profoundly saddened by the discovery of 215 unmarked graves found on the site of the former residential school on the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc First Nation. We share in the pain unleashed by the thought of these children whose lives ended abruptly, whose memory has not been honoured, and whose families still seek peace. Our deepest respect and compassion are extended to all those who are personally affected by these revelations and the ongoing legacy of residential schools in Canada. STM stands in solidarity with Indigenous people and communities as the search for truth continues and the work of reconciliation endures.

The discovery of these 215 children sparks a range of emotions. Perry Bellegarde, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, reminds us that “while it is not new to find graves at former residential schools in Canada, it’s always crushing to have that chapter’s wounds exposed”. These crushing moments might tempt us to look away. However, to live in solidarity and to walk authentically along the path of reconciliation requires the courage to face the truth of our collective histories. We send out our compassion along with our prayers for all those who are suffering right now. May we respectfully offer each other support and extend that same compassion to ourselves if needed.

The biblical concept of justice calls us to live in right relationship. We lament those times when, in Canada, we have failed to live up to this calling. The legacy of the colonial project, and the systemic racism it engenders, still shape the way we relate today. While we cannot change past history, we can redirect its course. We therefore commit ourselves, and the resources within our scholarly community, to the work of transforming Canadian society. We recognize our responsibility to participate fully in the work of reconciliation knowing that, for too long, this burden has been disproportionately placed on Indigenous people and communities.

The STM College Plan 2025 proclaims that “we will be a reconciling community led by the ideals of holistic interconnectedness and accountability as represented by the Cree concept of wahkohtowin”. Within this key priority for the College, we also commit ourselves to the honest examination of Catholicism and colonialism as well as opportunities for respectful dialogue and engagement in Canada. This work is one way that we can honour the memory of all children lost throughout the history of residential schools in Canada. Through this shared journey, we hope to open a door to a new generation of Indigenous students as they join the partnership of learning and growth that is at the heart of our mission as an educational community.

Carl N. Still

President, St. Thomas More College