The Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) has announced the re-relase of its report on St. Joseph’s Mission (SJM) residential school investigation.
The St. Joseph’s Mission and Onward Ranch Investigation: Interim Report of Findings will soon be available to the public through digital platforms including Kindle, Apple Books and OverDrive at participating libraries across Canada.
The report sheds light on significant findings from the investigation into the SJM residential school, such as 66 reflections that display characteristics indicative of potential human remains.
WLFN’s announcement states a reaffirmation of their commitment to truth, healing, and revitalization at the former residential school site.
“This work is heavy. It’s emotional. But it’s also sacred,” Chief Willie Sellars said in a press release.
“The investigation has brought painful truths to light, and we are re-releasing our interim report to ensure those truths are never forgotten.”
Chief Sellars emphasized in the release that while the community has made significant progress, continued healing will require lasting commitment and meaningful investment from all levels of government.
WLFN is advocating for culturally grounded and trauma-informed supports for survivors, intergenerational survivors, and families. Those resources would allow space for reflection, grief, and wellness on their own terms.
The First Nation also encourages all Canadians to engage with the report, acknowledge its truths, and support the ongoing work toward justice and reconciliation. WLFN said they view the findings as one step in a longer journey, one that calls for care, courage, and tangible support.
The Nation also issued a reminder that information related to residential schools may be triggering and that a 24-hour crisis support line is available through the Indian Residential School Survivors at 1-866-925-4419.
The investigation has involved several phases of geophysical surveys to determine the possibility of burials and unmarked graves at the site of the former SJM residential school. The investigation team has also scoured through archival documents and photographs and conducted survivor interviews.
READ MORE: 66 more potential graves identified at St. Joseph’s Mission, former residential school
An interim report was originally released Oct. 21, 2024, concluding an estimated 55 children died or disappeared while attending St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School.
READ MORE: Report finds 55 children lost while attending residential school near Williams Lake
St. Joseph’s Mission was established in 1867 by Roman Catholic Oblate missionaries in an area just south of the current WLFN community of Sugar Cane. In 1886, St. Joseph’s became an Indian Residential School and remained one until it was closed in 1981.
With files from Andie Mollins and Monica Lamb-Yorski.