Mayor’s Statement Re: Discovery of Hundreds of Remains at Residential School Site

HALTON HILLS, ON – Today’s news that 751 unmarked children’s graves were found at the site of the former Marieval Indian Residential School in Cowessess First Nation, Saskatchewan prompted a further call for action from Mayor Rick Bonnette.

“This is a time of profound sadness and mourning. We must recognize the truth of the atrocities that happened in residential schools in our country and the ongoing pain that this has caused for survivors, families and communities,” said the Mayor. “We must come together to support the Indigenous members of our community and educate ourselves and our families on this shameful chapter in our history.”

The Town of Halton Hills joins communities across Canada and the world in mourning the loss of the children who died because of the residential school system. The Halton Hills Public Libraries in Georgetown and Acton have begun a display of colourful ribbons, in recognition of ribbon skirts that honour First Nations’ heritage, resiliency and historical causes. Residents are invited to contribute to the display by adding their own ribbons.

The Town will display ribbons at the Gellert Recreation Centre. Flags at municipal facilities will be lowered.

About the Town of Halton Hills

The Town of Halton Hills, with a population of approximately 60,000, consists of two urban centres, Georgetown and Acton, the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area, three hamlets – Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval – and several smaller settlements. Halton Hills has long been recognized for its natural beauty, active agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major centres, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto.  The Town is ranked as one of the top small communities in Canada by a national magazine.

Visit the Town of Halton Hills website 

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