The NSCN Board and staff are deeply saddened to learn of the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children at the former residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia. We acknowledge the lives, legacy and loss of each of these 215 children and the trauma experienced by the children, their families, and all Indigenous communities across Canada.
The ongoing racism against Indigenous peoples in Canada and the trauma impacted by the residential school system needs to be acknowledged and addressed. The discovery of these children is a reminder to all of us that there is urgency in the work to address the legacy of racism and that our efforts on truth and reconciliation must continue.
As the Nova Scotia College of Nursing, we will continue to listen to and learn from individuals, advocates and community leaders. Rooted in our organizational values that respects diversity, inclusivity and equity, we are committed to examining what we as the regulator of the nursing profession in Nova Scotia can do to address anti-Indigenous racism. We grieve with those who honour and acknowledge the loss of the 215 Indigenous children and send our thoughts to the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation and to all Indigenous communities and families.
