In light of recent discoveries on the grounds of residential schools, a Northern Manitoba town is honouring its residents by celebrating July 1 differently.
Many Canadians have been calling for Canada Day celebrations to cease after almost one thousand bodies were found buried in unmarked graves at two residential schools. Churchill is the first to decide to make this move in Manitoba.
"Recently in speaking with Survivors and others within the Indigenous community, it is our belief that Canada Day needs to be marked differently this year," the town's Mayor and Council say in a statement.
Churchill's population is less than one thousand people with an Indigenous majority.
"Out of respect for the children, families, and for all Survivors of the residential school system, the Town of Churchill has made the decision to cancel all Canada Day events."
Instead, they are asking their community to join them in a walk honouring the children.
"We encourage everyone to use this day for reflection, for learning about the true history of Canada, for listening to the voices of Indigenous people supporting further calls to action, and working to advance reconciliation."
The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is asking people to join them in spirit in honouring the children lost instead of celebrating Canada Day.
"More truth and evidence of genocide will continue to be revealed every day. Say a prayer, light a candle or honour the children in your own way," the NCTR says in a statement.
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