How are we connected to the Kamloops tragedy?
It is heart-wrenching to learn of the remains of 215 children found at the former Kamloops residential school. Yes, the Truth and Reconciliation report told us about these missing children but to hear about a mass grave of children in Canada, and to know there are likely more such graves, as yet undiscovered, is deeply disturbing.
Given that this residential school was a Catholic-run institution, it is important to turn to the statements released by the Kamloops Bishop and the Vancouver Archbishop. Bishop Nguyen of Kamloops joined his voice with others who are “heartbroken and horrified” and expressed his deepest sympathy to Chief Rosanne Casimir of the Tk’emlups te Secwépemc. He also offered assurance of personal support, prayers and accompaniment.” The statement from Archbishop Miller wrote about the “ongoing need to bring to light every tragic situation that occurred in residential schools run by the Church.”
Such statements matter. Still, the moment requires more.
Steps of St. Peter’s Basilica, London, ON | May 31, 2021 (Photo: Mark Wright)
It is not enough to see this tragedy simply as an event from the past. Catholics, in particular, are challenged to acknowledge how we, today, are connected to these deaths. How have we internalized the colonial assumptions and attitudes that have shaped our social, cultural, economic, and political systems? Where have racist assumptions become rooted in our subconscious? What are we doing to decolonize our minds and hearts?
“the moment requires more”
Here’s one action that might move us forward as a Church.
We, the Federation of Sisters of St. Joseph of Canada, commit to urging the local bishops in the dioceses in which we live and work, to join with all Canadian bishops to request that Pope Francis visit Canada and offer a formal apology to the Indigenous peoples of this land, as has been requested by many Indigenous groups. Will you join us?
Sister Sue Wilson, CSJ | Office for Systemic Justice | Federation of Sisters of St. Joseph of Canada
For more information, please read the press release from the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc.
Photos: Mark Wright