Residential Schools

June 8th 2021

AYAAF stands with the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation and all those who have been impacted by this devasting news. In May, a heart-breaking discovery was made at the Kamloops Indian Residential School grounds. The remains of 215 children were uncovered, some as young as three years old. We stand firmly with residential school survivors who have bravely spoken up about the mistreatment they received while attending these schools. 

We support the Indigenous leaders in asking both the Canadian government and the province of British Columbia to address the historical atrocities that they have been a part of. We also support Indigenous communities who ask their sovereignty to be respected. As well as the passing of legislation to support Indigenous communities so we may move toward reconciliation.

In response, the AYAAF will be implementing training to all volunteers in indigenous studies. Further, we are committed to the incorporation of more indigenous sports and bringing in indigenous support workers into our programs. As a community, we must come together to provide support and action for our indigenous communities. 

AYAAF Team