A Message from the BCFMWU First Nations Vision Committee

Bulletin #30
May 31, 2021

Members,

It is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the tragic discovery of the mass grave discovered by Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation. This news affects us all and there’s no doubt that a number of our members have been affected by the residential school system. I want to remind you that you are not alone. My father, Raymond Tony Charlie, is a residential school survivor. I’ve had many conversations with my father about the experiences he endured. If you would like to speak with a fellow member, I am available at firstnationsvision@bcfmwu.com. There is also a National Indian Residential School Crisis line set up to provide support for former students and those affected. This is a 24-hour line 1-866-925-4419.

To honour the lives lost, we will drop our flags beginning May 31st until further notice. On Friday, June 4th we invite members to wear orange to show support and solidarity to Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation and all affected communities. As a reminder, Orange Shirt Day (September 30th) is a day to commemorate the residential school experience, to honour and acknowledge the healing journey of survivors and their families, and to commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation.

On the topic of reconciliation, Bill C-5 debate has completed as of May 28th. The legislation would establish a statutory holiday to commemorate the victims and survivors of Indigenous residential schools. The stat holiday is set for September 30th. This Bill is of the utmost importance and will bring further awareness and education into Canada’s dark and tragic past.

In Solidarity,

Adrian Charlie
Chair – First Nations Vision Committee

 

To view as a pdf: Bulletin #30 Message from First Nations Vision Committee