The EFC joins with the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation to grieve the deaths of the 215 children discovered in unmarked graves at the site of the Kamloops Indian Residential School.
The news, announced last Thursday by the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation, is a devastating reminder of the history of violence and oppression in Canada against the Indigenous peoples of this land. We understand that what was revealed in Kamloops is not unique, and that many more children needlessly died because of their time in Canada’s residential school system.
We lament the devastating loss of children taken from and lost to their families and communities. We lament the atrocities committed in the name of Jesus, and yet wholly contrary to the teachings of Jesus.
We’ve heard clearly from Indigenous sisters and brothers that reconciliation will not come by words alone, but with action. The EFC is recommitting to the long work of true reconciliation. We do this essential work in collaboration with Indigenous leaders to fulfill the commitments the EFC has made toward tangible reconciliation goals.
The EFC is
committed to listening, learning and then acting. Led by the Holy Spirit, we remain steadfast in that commitment.
Today though, is the time to express sorrow and pledge again our solidarity with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. We lament together. We stand with you.