Today (Tuesday) marked the end of the 215 days that the Lheidli T’enneh flag was held at half mast in Prince George, and people gathered to see the new flag get raised to full mast this afternoon.
Due to the cold weather, part of the event was held indoors at City Hall, and Elder Darlene McIntosh talked about the impact that residential schools have had on Indigenous people.
“Indian Residential schools are a painful reminder of the dark and shameful chapter in our country’s history. We are still tormented, traumatized, and empty.”
Chief Dolleen Logan took the opportunity to ask people to learn more about First Nations, and Canada’s history.
“Today, as we raise our new flags at full mast, I’m asking everyone to take five minutes to learn more about what really happened at residential schools.”
Mayor Lyn Hall noted that the raising of the flag does not end recognition, but marks a continuation of learning and understanding.
Councillor Joshua Seymour took a moment to share what he’s learned over the 215 days.
“In finishing, I’d like to share a realization I’ve had in the last 215 days. Before, I wanted reconciliation because I wanted justice for my grandfather and his generations, but now I’ve realized that I need reconciliation, because I need peace for my son and his generation.”
The flag was held at half mast for 215 days in memorial of the remains of the 215 children found at the Kamloops Residential school.
The new Lheidli T'enneh flag was raised today. The 215 days passed where it was held at half mast in memorial of the remains of the 215 children found at the Kamloops Residential School. pic.twitter.com/CtMIHRVxNa
— Brody Langager (@brodylangager) January 4, 2022