Mayor's Statement on Discovery at Former St. Mary's Indian Residential School

Today, Wauzhushk Onigum Nation Leadership announced they have detected over 170 plausible burials on their traditional territory, after searching the former St. Mary’s Indian Residential School site. The City of Kenora extends our heartfelt condolences to the Wauzhushk Onigum Nation community, and all Indigenous communities in our area. Our thoughts are with all Indigenous people who have been impacted by Canada’s residential schools and its intergenerational impacts, and offer our deepest sympathies to all those affected.

We acknowledge the deep-rooted grief, trauma and loss that has been caused by Canada’s residential schools and other colonial systems and policies that were enacted and supported by all levels of government. We recognize there is much needed work to be done to understand the truth in order for true reconciliation to take place. The City of Kenora remains committed to this learning, listening and healing together. 

On behalf of Council, City staff, and the entire community, we offer our humble comforts during this very difficult time. 

Andrew Poirier, Mayor
City of Kenora
1 Main Street South
Kenora, ON  P9N 3X2
Phone: 807-467- 2018
Cell:807-466-2495
Fax: 807-467- 2045

If you are a residential school survivor, you are able to contact the 24-hour National Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419 for support. 

Indigenous people can also access the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca. 

The Lake of the Woods District Hospital through the Mental Health and Addictions Program is offering walk-in counselling services Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the St. Joseph’s Health Centre, 21 Wolsely Street, 2nd Floor. This service is open to anyone over the age of 16. No appointment necessary. 

Please remember:

• Do not remain alone if you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or others;
• Strong emotional reactions are normal, and may happen immediately, within hours, days or weeks after;
• Talk to someone you feel safe with about your thoughts and emotions;
• Be kind to yourself and others.