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For immediate release
July 19, 2022
Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Inc. is issuing the following statement regarding the upcoming Papal visit in Edmonton, Alberta.
Grand Chief Garrison Settee will be travelling to Alberta to participate in the meeting with Pope Francis and Indian residential school Survivors.
Grand Chief Garrison Settee states:
“Pope Francis will be attending the former Ermineskin Residential School with residential school Survivors. It is my understanding that this will be an historic event where the Pope will acknowledge and apologize for the role of the Roman Catholic church in operating residential schools.
The last few years have been hard on our Nations as we work towards identifying and bringing the spirits of our children home. There were many First Nation children that didn’t make it home from residential school. So, these actions taken by the Pope, supports reconciliation for many First Nations.
MKO has sponsored a delegation to attend numerous events around Alberta. Our MKO team has been able to secure tickets for multiple events. I understand there were challenges in acquiring tickets, but I am thankful our team was able to enough tickets for our delegation. Our team is working on the logistics to ensure proper resources are available to delegates and to make this a memorable and positive experience.
I will be happy to reflect on this event upon return.
As the day draws near, I understand that this may be hard for some, I encourage citizens to access resources and supports should they need help.”
The Hope for Wellness Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at: 1-855-242-3310
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For more information:
Melanie Ferris, MKO Communications
Phone: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]
