Letting folks know that we are closed today, not in celebration, but in support and allegiance of my friend and apprentice Kevin John. Whose father is a residential school survivor. Having grown up in the midst of four indian reservations I am only, just now, coming to full realization about why they exist at all. We are closed today in memory of the ‘children’ and their families who were torn apart, abused and many ‘murdered’ by the newcomers to this land. Also in recognition that abuse and oppression is ongoing against first nations peoples. I must do my part to help shape a canada that is fully participating and acting to heal, value and cherish our indigenous brothers and sisters. What that looks like exactly for me will unfold moving forward but I’m starting by saying we have some listening and compassionate work to do if we want to celebrate this place along with first nations in the future.
Mahsi Cho
Jeremy Behn