Indigenous Peoples still need the resources to heal as more unmarked graves are found

NDP Critic for Indigenous Services and Indigenous-Crown Relations, Lori Idlout, made the following statement:

“Today, my heart goes out to the George Gordon First Nation in Saskatchewan as they process the devastating discovery of 14 potential unmarked burial sites close to the former George Gordon Indian Residential School. Indigenous Peoples across Canada feel this pain as we are once again reminded of the genocide that was perpetrated and still goes on to this day.

The Prime Minister has promised to take significant steps to help communities heal and find truth, but many Indigenous communities still lack the resources they need.

New Democrats continue their calls for the Liberal government to give Indigenous Peoples the truth and justice they are owed. We have been calling for a major increase in funding to undertake forensic investigations at the sites of former residential schools – investigations that must be under the authority of the affected Indigenous communities. In addition, we have called for the creation of a special prosecutor who would reach out to the International Criminal Court and bring to justice those that have committed crimes against humanity through colonialist structures.

New Democrats are committed to holding the Liberals to account and supporting the needs of First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities. We must turn empathy into real action.”