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TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2013
Remembering recovering and reconciling Monuments were erected at the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School Site south of Williams Lake and at Boitanio Park in Williams Lake May 16 and 17. On the monuments, under an archival photograph of the former mission school, the inscription encased in a large black feather reads in part: “Today we dedicate ourselves to the healing journey of all of those affected by the St. Joseph’s Mission (Cariboo) Residential School that operated on this site from July 19, 1891 to June 30, 1981.” “.. the absence of an apology has been an impediment to healing and reconciliation. Therefore on behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians, I stand before you... to apologize to Aboriginal peoples for Canada’s role in the Indian Residential School System.” - Prime Minister Stephen Harper, June 11, 2008.
Inside the Tribune NEWS A2 Culprit robs business with bear spray. SPORTS A9 Stags open rugby provs Thursday. COMMUNITY A13 Take the Golden Lawn challenge. Weather outlook: Showers today, tomorrow, highs of 13 C.
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RCMP ASSIST IN MONUMENT UNVEILING
Monica Lamb-Yorski photo
Williams Lake RCMP members Const. Simon Courtoreille (left), Const. Kevin Neufeld, Const. Matt Shearer, Cpl. Eric Chrona and Insp. Warren Brown assisted in unveiling the monument honouring all those impacted by residential schools. The monument is located in the cemetery at the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School at 150 Mile House.
National Chief Atleo delivers message of hope Monica Lamb-Yorski Tribune Staff Writer The moment of hope and incredible potential is emerging said Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-In-Chut Atleo in Williams Lake Friday. Atleo was giving the opening address on day two of Remembering, Recovering and Reconciling, the Truth and Reconciliation Statement Gathering, in Williams Lake that began May 16. “I feel hope for the future of our people,” Atleo said. “It’s an honour that you’ve come together in unity from different nations. It’s a powerful statement. You’ve come together to support the journey of the survivors, to mark and commemorate what has occurred, as well as to celebrate the moments that are to come.” It’s hopeful that mayors and directors from the Cariboo Regional District, School District #27, Thompson Rivers University, the RCMP, and church leaders were also present, Atleo said. “I remember when I was on a
ride to the St. Joseph’s Mission site in 2007. I remember that moment, we were on horseback, and we were riding to the mission.” There was a tightness in his stomach that comes with emotions and he said he was sure survivors must have felt that when they went to the monument unveiling at the site on May 16. “I want to say that we’re here with you. That we recognize you’re honouring students who didn’t make it. That their memory is important and that the work continues of honouring the ancestors.” When he joined the group in 2007 on horses and wagon, he realized the leaders, such as Xeni Gwet’in Chief Roger William who had invited him, were saying “it was a dreadful journey at one time.” “You’ve transferred that now into a journey for healing to be out there together. That’s the work that’s happening here. That courageous manner in which our people have always been able to face challenges and come face to face with an institution that wreaked havoc
on you and your lives, on your families and communities.” Quoting Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s apology statement in 2008, Atleo said decisions were taken that should have never been taken, and must never be taken again. “I will never forget that moment because I got to hold the hand of my late granny Elsie Robinson, my Aunty Louise’s late mom, who passed away four years ago.” Elsie, 87, took Atleo’s hand and said: “They’re just beginning to see us grandson. You see, even in a moment, there was a measure of justice that my late granny was feeling. But I think more importantly, as grandmothers want to do, to express that and encourage her grandson to find the healing potential.” His granny wanted him to realize that through all the difficulties she wanted to encourage her grandson that Canada was staring to see Aboriginal people and that was a good thing. See ATLEO Page A3
Monica Lamb-Yorski photo
National Chief Shawn A-InChut Atleo.