Statement from Northwestern Health Unit regarding the identification of plausible burials at former St. Mary’s Indian Residential School

Northwestern Health Unit acknowledges the recent identification of 171 plausible burials at the former St. Mary’s Indian Residential School. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Wauzhushk Onigum Nation, survivors, and their loved ones as they navigate this most difficult and challenging time. Members of sixteen Treaty #3 communities attended St. Mary’s during its time of operation, and we understand the impacts of these discoveries may extend beyond this area.

Northwestern Health Unit stands beside Wauzhushk Onigum Nation and all Indigenous peoples and remains committed to fully acknowledging the truth of how colonial systems have impacted Indigenous peoples and culture, and to continue to work towards meaningful reconciliation.

On behalf of Northwestern Health Unit,