The discovery of bodies at residential schools in British Columbia and Saskatchewan has led municipalities in the Greater Saint John area to shift Canada Day from a day of celebration to a day of reflection.
Saint John – Rothesay – and Quispamsis are asking residents to pause for reflection on the discoveries and the impact on Indigenous people and the country.
Grand Bay-Westfield is cancelling the musical act and BBQ as well as the scavenger hunt at the Brundage Point River Centre. In a post on its web page the town says it is consulting with community indigenous leaders to provide “a thoughtful and meaningful response to the recent discoveries.” The post indicates the town will have more announcements in the coming days.
(UPDATE – June26-20 1:38pm) The Town of Hampton has also cancelled its Canada Day celebrations also opting to ask residents to reflect on the recent events and their impact on Indigenous people and our nation.
