A British Columbia First Nation has reported that at least 55 children died or disappeared while attending the St. Joseph’s Mission Indian Residential School near Williams Lake. This figure is more than triple the number recorded in the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation memorial register for the institution. The Williams Lake First Nation has conducted an interim report into the school, stating that investigators will finalize ground-penetrating radar surveys this year and hold meetings on potential excavation, exhumation, repatriation, DNA testing, and genealogical mapping before any decision on digging up possible graves is made. The report emphasizes that there are currently no definitive processes planned for excavation, and no confirmed human remains have been found to date. However, the investigators assert that there is an overwhelming abundance of evidence supporting the legitimacy of the investigation.
The report also addresses the discomfort felt by some Canadians regarding the re-evaluation of orthodox history brought about by residential school investigations. It emphasizes that this discomfort is an unavoidable part of bringing truth to light and is a necessary and healthy part of the nation’s evolution and growth. Previous searches using ground-penetrating radar at the former school site had detected 159 possible unmarked graves, and the report notes that the Catholic-run school operated from 1891 to 1981, covering 782 hectares of land. While the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation memorial register lists 16 children by name as having died at the school, the report asserts that an additional 39 deaths or disappearances have been verified through archival documentation.
The Williams Lake First Nation acquired the school site last year with the help of the provincial government to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation. Early plans are also in place to reimagine the site as a place of healing. The investigation team is collaborating with the BC Coroner’s Service, RCMP, the B.C. government, and other entities to determine where and under what circumstances excavations of potential graves and the exhumation of human remains can occur. A memorandum of understanding is being developed regarding excavation, exhumation, identification, and repatriation of remains. The report states that no definitive processes are currently planned for excavation, and engagement sessions will be completed before any decisions are made.
Overall, the investigation into the St. Joseph’s Mission Indian Residential School aims to bring to light the truths of the children who died or disappeared while attending the school. The report emphasizes the importance of re-evaluating orthodox history, acknowledging the damage caused by colonial systems, policies, and institutions, and promoting an evolution and growth as a nation. With ongoing research, collaboration with various entities, and a focus on healing, the Williams Lake First Nation is dedicated to honoring the memory of the children and ensuring that their stories are heard and remembered. While no definitive plans for excavation have been made yet, the investigation team is committed to conducting a thorough and respectful process in determining the fate of possible unmarked graves at the school site.
