The City of North Battleford has announced that flags at City Hall have been lowered after the announcement Thursday that unmarked graves were discovered at the site of the former Marieval (Cowessess) Indian Residential School.
A statement has been issued by City Hall this afternoon which reads as follows:
"On behalf of City Council, City staff and the residents of North Battleford, Mayor David Gillan, expresses heartfelt condolences in recognition of the discovery of 751 unmarked graves located in a cemetery near the former Marieval Indian Residential School. Discoveries like this cause deep sadness and pain for all of us. North Battleford grieves with all who are suffering and enduring during this painful time.
The flags at City Hall have been lowered to half-mast in recognition of the children discovered.
The City continues to partner with our regional First Nations and Indigenous neighbours to better understand our past and bring positive change to the future."
The city has also shared details on Twitter and Facebook of resources available for those needing crisis, emotional, or spiritual assistance:Â
The Residential School Crisis Support Line is open 24/7 and can be reached at 1-844-751-2133.
Individuals can also reach out to the following organizations: The First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310.
Indian Residential School Survivors and Family can contact: Toll-Free Line at 1-800-721-0066; 24-Hour National Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419;
Native Youth Crisis Hotline at 1-877-209-1266.
