Joint Statement on Commitment to Truth & Reconciliation

Issued October 9, 2026

The Campbell River Board of Education and School District, Campbell River Principals’ and Vice-Principals’ Association, Campbell River District Teachers’ Association, and CUPE Local 723 unequivocally condemns the residential school denialism event that took place in Kamloops. Acts and messages that deny, minimize, or distort the experiences of Residential School Survivors are harmful, discriminatory, and fundamentally at odds with the values of truth, respect, reconciliation, and human dignity.

The legacy of residential schools is not a matter of opinion. The experiences of Survivors, the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and the ongoing work of Indigenous communities, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and researchers have demonstrated the profound and enduring impacts of the residential school system on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Residential school denialism dismisses these lived realities and causes further harm to Survivors, their families, and future generations.

As educators, we have a responsibility to ensure that truth is acknowledged, history is taught accurately, and every learner understands the lasting effects of colonial policies in Canada. Education plays a vital role in reconciliation, and we remain committed to fostering learning environments where Indigenous voices are honoured, respected, and reflected in our teaching and practices.

Our thoughts are with the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc community, Residential School Survivors, and all those who were impacted by this event. We stand alongside Indigenous communities in rejecting racism, hatred, and denialism in all its forms.

In School District 72, we will continue to support the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, advance Indigenous education, and work in partnership with local First Nations, Métis communities, families, and community organizations to build understanding, respect, and meaningful reconciliation.

Reconciliation requires courage, honesty, and action. Denialism undermines that work. Together, we can ensure that truth prevails over misinformation and that the experiences of Survivors are acknowledged with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Sincerely,