City of Medicine Hat Pays Tribute to Residential School Children, Families
Medicine Hat – The City of Medicine Hat has lowered flags to half-mast in honour of the 215 children whose lives were taken at the former residential school in Kamloops.
In addition, the Saamis Tepee will be lit orange for 215 hours beginning June 1 to commemorate the lives of each child.
“Our thoughts are with many families affected by this tragedy, and the survivors of the residential school system whose stories we are only beginning to know and understand,” said Mayor Ted Clugston. “Recognition of Indigenous and Metis history is integral to Medicine Hat’s identity. It’s in our name, the iconic Saamis Tepee, and designation of heritage resources including Saratoga Park.”
The City has undertaken many activities and initiatives to create greater awareness and a deeper understanding and appreciation of local Indigenous and Metis history and culture. This includes engaging with various partners, including Miywasin Friendship Centre and Medicine Hat College, to promote recognition and respect.
“It’s important that we all continue to learn about our shared history of residential schools,” added Clugston. “But first and foremost, it is imperative that we honour these 215 children, their families and all those affected.”
Please note the Saamis Tepee site is open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
To learn more about our Indigenous history, as well as the recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, please visit https://nctr.ca/
For media inquiries, please contact:
media@medicinehat.ca
In addition, the Saamis Tepee will be lit orange for 215 hours beginning June 1 to commemorate the lives of each child.
“Our thoughts are with many families affected by this tragedy, and the survivors of the residential school system whose stories we are only beginning to know and understand,” said Mayor Ted Clugston. “Recognition of Indigenous and Metis history is integral to Medicine Hat’s identity. It’s in our name, the iconic Saamis Tepee, and designation of heritage resources including Saratoga Park.”
The City has undertaken many activities and initiatives to create greater awareness and a deeper understanding and appreciation of local Indigenous and Metis history and culture. This includes engaging with various partners, including Miywasin Friendship Centre and Medicine Hat College, to promote recognition and respect.
“It’s important that we all continue to learn about our shared history of residential schools,” added Clugston. “But first and foremost, it is imperative that we honour these 215 children, their families and all those affected.”
Please note the Saamis Tepee site is open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
To learn more about our Indigenous history, as well as the recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, please visit https://nctr.ca/
For media inquiries, please contact:
media@medicinehat.ca
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