To the people of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, all Residential School Survivors and their families, and all those who stand against hate and racism

shíshálh Nation stands with the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc people in condemning the presence and actions of individuals associated with white nationalist and white supremacist ideology in the Kamloops area.

We do not accept intimidation, racism, hatred, or attempts to create fear within Indigenous communities or anywhere in our lands and communities.

As Indigenous Peoples, we know all too well the harm that racism and hatred can cause. Our peoples have endured generations of colonial violence, discrimination, dispossession, and attempts to undermine our identity, culture, language, and connection to our lands. We will not stand by while hateful ideologies seek to divide our communities or make Indigenous people feel unsafe on our own lands.

The images and reports coming from Kamloops are deeply concerning. To see masked individuals gathering and promoting an ideology rooted in white nationalism is not something that should be normalized or tolerated. Whether such actions are directed at Indigenous Peoples, racialized communities, newcomers, or any other community, racism and hate threaten the dignity and safety of everyone.

We also stand in solidarity with all Residential School Survivors and their families. The strength, courage, and truth of Survivors continue to guide the path toward healing and reconciliation, and we honour those who carry the lasting impacts of the residential school system.

shíshálh Nation recognizes the strength and resilience of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and extends our support to their leadership, Elders, members, and community.

On September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, shíshálh Nation will host a Sacred Fire from sunrise to sunset in solidarity with the people of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, Residential School Survivors, and their families. We welcome our community to join us in reflection, remembrance, and unity.

We also recognize the importance of standing together. Indigenous Nations, municipalities, community organizations, and people from all backgrounds must continue to speak clearly and firmly when hate appears in our communities.

There is no place for white supremacy in British Columbia.

There is no place for intimidation and racism in our communities.

And there is no place for hatred to take root on our lands.

shíshálh Nation stands with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc. We stand with all Residential School Survivors and their families. We stand with all people who reject racism, hate, and white supremacy.

shíshálh Nation