Flags at municipal buildings lowered in memory of the Kamloops residential school victims

On May 31, 2021 the flags at Town Hall, Municipal Operations Centre and Pyramid Recreation Centre have been lowered to half-mast in memory of the 215 children found at the former Kamloops residential school. 

The flags will remain lowered for nine days, representing one hour for each of the 215 children lost. Local residents have started a memorial display on the front steps of Town Hall and the Town of St. Marys encourages residents to place shoes at this memorial to help bring awareness to the children found at the Kamloops residential school in British Columbia.

“We’ve lowered the flags as a sign of respect, mourning and awareness of this terrible tragedy.” Said Mayor Al Strathdee. “It’s hard to believe something like this has occurred in our recent history. St. Marys Town Council will continue to look at actions and policies relating to continuously improving our community’s inclusiveness and diversity.”

Anyone wishing to learn more about Canada’s Indigenous Peoples and residential schools is encouraged to reach out to the St. Marys Public Library to access material for children and adults. Please visit the library’s webpage at www.stmaryspubliclibrary.ca or call 519-284-3346 for more information on signing out literature.  Please visit the St. Marys Public Library’s Facebook page to review curbside pickup protocols prior to visiting.

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For media inquiries:
Beverly Brenneman, Corporate Communications Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | bbrenneman@town.stmarys.on.ca