Statement from Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Hähkè Darren Taylor
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As many are aware, The Yukon Residential School Missing Children Project (YRSMCP) released findings today, in partnership with the Carcross/Tagish First Nation (C/TFN), addressing the exploration of the Chooutla Residential School grounds.
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We had the Warriors Walk begin on Sunday, and although a powerful day of ceremony and strength it was also a day to grieve. Two days later, we are processing the devastating information and confirmation that our children died at the Chooutla Residential School.
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The information released confirms what First Nation Survivors have long told us. We have always believed our Survivors and knew this day would come. Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in citizens, like so many other Nations, were forced to attend these residential schools.
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Today, as with everyday, we stand together with the First Nations across the Yukon.
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We offer our support to all Survivors and their families. We offer our love to those who made it out alive and we honour those who did not.
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We will continue to support Survivors and their families. We will continue to work to bring our lost children home.
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To our citizens, near and far, we are here to help. We have supports available 24 hours a day, please call 867-993-3140. Collect calls accepted.
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To all First Nation citizens, if you are on Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Traditional Territory, we also offer our supports to you.
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Łihè tr’ädä̀l. We walk together.
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-Hähkè Darren Taylor
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The Chief John Jonas Centre is open September 27th at 8:30am.
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24-hour Residential School Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419.
