What's New > A Statement from IPAA in response to the Kamloops Residential School
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Statement from IPAA Grand Council Chair, Barbara Diabo:
IPAA looks upon the recent discovery of the 215 children at the Kamloops residential school with horror and great sadness, yet also thankfulness our children were found. Along with our communities and families, we feel the many-layered pain and loss touching all of us collectively and individually from this truth that has been brought closer to the light again.
We join you in grieving; we join you in action. Now more than ever, Indigenous voices need to be heard. We continue to support our artists through this challenging time - art is our voice, our expression, our medicine.
Artists, continue creating and expressing the stories of our people and know that you are not alone. Allies, continue to support and strive for greater knowledge and understanding of indigenous peoples. IPAA commits to continue working to help our artists be seen, be heard, and feel supported.
For the children, for the families, and for all of us.
For support:
A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former students and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419.