RE: District of Sechelt Mayor’s failure to support Union of BC Indian Chiefs’ Resolution 2024-33 “Rejection of Residential School Denialism”

September 20, 2024
District of Sechelt Mayor
PO Box 129
5797 Cowrie St, 2nd Floor
Sechelt, BC VON 3A0

 

We are writing in response to your failure to join District of Sechelt Council in expressing support for UBCIC Resolution 2024-33 “Rejection of Residential School Denialism.”
Relatedly, we understand that you have made the baffling decision to bring material that espouses Residential School denialism and misinformation into municipal hall, and that you have discussed that material with senior staffers, among others.

The truth of what happened in Residential Schools in this country, including at St. Augustine’s in Sechelt, is well documented. Our courageous survivors have told us the truth and the truth must be heard, understood, and accepted before reconciliation can occur in this country. We stand with our survivors and denounce your actions. Your lack of support for UBCIC Resolution 2024-33 and refusal to reject Residential School denialism and misinformation puts the District of Sechelt’s reconciliation efforts at risk.

We expect more of leaders in this country.

We understand, as you have stated, that you need to do your due diligence; however, the truth is overwhelming, as documented in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and after hearing the truth we must stand with survivors.

Living in our swiya, side by side, our relationship with the District of Sechelt is important to us. Going forward, we will work directly with the District of Sechelt Council. Please direct all your communications to us through your colleagues.

Signed:
shishalh Nation Council
At this important time in Canadian history, we need courageous and thoughtful leaders who are able to bring together Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples and individuals alike to build a better future for all. We do not believe that you are capable of this kind of leadership or that you are fit to hold the important office of the Mayor of Sechelt. We call on you to immediately step aside and let someone who can meet this challenge take the chair.