Statement from Raynie Gervais, MNBC Director for Region 5 (North Central)
“The community of Williams Lake First Nation is experiencing pain and trauma right now, and I want them to know that the North Cariboo Métis community of Williams Lake stands with them. There is still so much healing that must occur in this country, and it starts with healing the relationship with Indigenous communities. So many children never returned home, so many parents never had the chance to say goodbye. Our entire Nation sends our deepest thoughts to Williams Lake.”
Statement from Lissa Dawn Smith, MNBC President:
“The entire MNBC Cabinet stands with the Williams Lake First Nation through these challenging times. The history of Residential schools in Canada continue to remain an open wound in Indigenous communities. While reconciliation advances, we must never forget the legacy that this painful part of our history has.”
Support services are available for those affected by this news:
- 24 hour/7 days a week Métis Crisis line at 1-833-Metis-BC (1-833-638-4722)
- A National Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former Residential School students and those affected. Access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1 866 925-4419.
- Within BC, the KUU-US Crisis Line Society provides a First Nations and Indigenous specific crisis line available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, toll-free from anywhere in British Columbia.
- The KUU-US Crisis Line can be reached toll-free at 1 800 588-8717. Alternatively, call direct into the Youth Line at 250 723-2040 or the Adult Line at 250 723-4050, or online: https://www.kuu-uscrisisline.com/