UBCIC Stands with Survivors of St. Augustine’s Residential School Following Further Investigation by Shíshálh

Press Release

August 18, 2025

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – August 18, 2025) The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) is deeply saddened by the disturbing results of the shíshálh Archaeological Research Project which details an additional 41 unmarked graves identified at the former St. Augustine’s Residential School. In 2023 shíshálh shared the results of their initial investigation which found 40 unmarked graves, bringing the community total to 81.

UBCIC raises our hands to the survivors, elders, and leaders for their strength in retelling the extremely traumatic stories of what happened to children at St. Augustine’s Residential School, and to the investigators for documenting and sharing evidence with the public. We share a deep appreciation for the emotional and spiritual work that shíshálh is carrying out alongside 53 other First Nations who had children who were forced to attend St. Augustine’s. UBCIC calls for the public and all levels of government to respect and trust the testimonies of residential school survivors and the findings of investigations into the residential school system. This includes acknowledging the truth about the residential school system, its devastating impact on Indigenous communities, and the need for reconciliation.

To learn more about Residential Schools, please see credible sources below:

Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Final Report
Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Calls to Action
Independent Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools: Final Report

A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line is available to provide support for survivors and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour service at 1-866-925-4419.

Mental health counselling and crisis support are also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Hope for Wellness hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or by online chat.

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UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca

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