Tk'emlups te Secwepemc sign (photo credit: Tk'emlups te Secwepemc)

By Kevin Rothwell

Shared grief

Vernon offers condolences to Okanagan Indian Band

Jun 14, 2021 | 3:10 PM

Vernon City council opened its meeting Monday (June 14) with Mayor Victor Cumming reading a letter written to Okanagan Indian Band Chief Byron Louis, with respect to the 215 graves of young people on the grounds of Kamloops Residential School.

A minute of silence was observed following the reading of the letter.

Dear Chief Byron Louis:

There are no words to fully express the collective grief shared in the wake of Tk ̓emlúps te Secwépemc Nation’s confirmation of 215 children buried on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. Once again, we have come face to face with the reality and impacts of Canada’s residential school system. We see the pain it has caused and continues to cause today.

We mourn with the Tk ̓emlúps te Secwépemc Nation as it acts as caretakers to these souls, as well as with Syilx People of the Okanagan Nation, the Okanagan Indian Band, and surrounding communities.

Fire spreads to house

Vernon home "significantly damaged" by grass fire

Apr 02, 2026

Youth Health Services

Youth immunization, sexual health clinic opening in Vernon

Apr 02, 2026

Displaced For A Week

Some residents still displaced from fatal apartment fire

Apr 01, 2026

The City of Vernon acknowledges the ongoing grief and pain of all the victims, survivors, families and friends left devastated by Canada’s residential school system including those who live here amongst us.

Our thoughts are with you.

Sincerely,

Victor Cumming
Mayor