The bridge over the Somass River was covered in cedar boughs this weekend, as survivors of the Alberni Indian Residential School came from throughout BC to try and heal the wounds inflicted on them at the institution.
Former students and their family members travelled from as far away as Northern BC to participate in healing ceremonies, and address the lifelong, intergenerational effects of the residential school system.
They spoke of the sexual, physical, and psychological abuse they endured as tiny children, and the loss of family, culture, and self-worth after they left the school.
The event was hosted by the Tseshaht First Nation, who say their territory was disgraced when the residential school was constructed on their land.
The United Church and Government of Canada were asked to help fund the event, but refused.
The horrors of Canada’s Indian Residential School are being further recognized across the country today during Orange Shirt Day.
