Haisla Nation Council (HNC) is aware of a troubling incident at a Kitimat school yesterday involving a Haisla youth who had chosen to wear Haisla regalia in class as part of the annual school picture day.

We join our membership in expressing our deep disappointment about the incident – and stand by all of our membership – including our youth – who wish to honour our culture and traditions in school and elsewhere.

HNC has been in close contact with the school administration as well as Coast Mountains School District since the incident occurred. We continue to work together to address the incident and ensure our youth feel safe and welcome to express themselves in school in Kitimat and the region.

HNC notes that this incident occurred within weeks of the inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and serves as a reminder of the necessary work ahead to achieve reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Any Haisla members who have questions or concerns with matters that they may have faced in school are welcome to contact our Director of Education Angie Maitland at 250-639-9361 ext. 351, or e-mail amaitland@haisla.ca.