Diabetes Action Canada is devastated by the tragic discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children in an unmarked grave at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Territory.

We are equally horrified by the uncovering of 751 unmarked graves by Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan. These graves, on the grounds of the former Marieval Indian Residential School, are presumed to be those of Indigenous children. These discoveries are a visible reminder of the harm of colonization on the lives of Indigenous families across Turtle Island.

These tragedies are also a reminder of the critical importance of meaningfully recognizing the traumatic role of Canada’s colonial past on the health of Indigenous people today and in the spirit of reconciliation, work alongside Indigenous communities to realize the Calls to Action laid out by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, particularly during National Indigenous History Month.

Our Network believes in the critical importance of self-determination for Indigenous peoples at all levels of health and well-being. We support Indigenous-led research and its role in improving the health and well-being of First Nation, Inuit, Metis and Urban Indigenous communities. We will continue to support these programs and the important work of the Indigenous Patient Circle.

To our Indigenous colleagues, we are deeply sorry for the pain and suffering this has caused you.

Resources for those seeking support:

• National Indian Residential School Crisis Line (24-hour): 1-866 925-4419
• First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 / hopeforwellness.ca