FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF
On behalf of Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) many of us are wearing pink to stand up for our commitment to choose kindness and remind everyone of our shared responsibility to treat one another with compassion, understanding, and respect.
We have all seen and experienced bullying in workplaces, on social media, and within communities. It truly has rippling effects that are hurtful and for those who are already marginalized. We need to be role models for future generations.
Denialism is a violent form of bullying that has risen since the announcement of unmarked graves, and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to allies that uphold the collective history and the impacts that Survivors have lived.
Denialists are those who willfully misrepresent well documented, historical facts to promote hate against Indigenous people and more specifically with the intention of targeting Survivors, families, and communities.
We all need to continue supporting change; we have seen real progress, so we must continue to call out all forms of bullying so that everyone feels united and respected. Building inclusive communities is the vision we should all want: a community supported by all of our neighbours, lifting each other up, and where everyone feels safe.
We recognize that bullying and division are sometimes fueled by those in power who seek to distract from the real issues impacting Survivors, communities, and the public.
Today on this Pink Shirt Day, let’s send a powerful message: bullying and denialism will not be tolerated. We stand for kindness, empathy, solidarity, and respect. From all of us at TteS, take action by wearing pink and giving kindness; it goes a long way and embraces real change.
