The Town of Cochrane has lowered flags to half-mast in recognition of the 215 children whose lives were taken at the former Kamloops residential school.

“Lowering our flags is a symbol of mourning the loss of so many lives, while honoring the survivors and their families; however, we know that symbol is only one small step. We need to take action and educate ourselves on the untold history of our country, and the story of the Indigenous peoples of this area and throughout Canada.”

said Mayor Jeff Genung.

Community members who are deeply impacted by this news can receive emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour National Residential School Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419. 

For others who would like to learn more about Indigenous peoples in this region, and to explore resources such as recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, visit https://nctr.ca/.

Cochrane flags will remain at half-mast for 215 hours.