Image Credit: Adam Donnelly / CFJC Today

By Dylana Kneeshaw

Independent Special Interlocutor

Tk’emlúps glad to see federal appointment of special interlocutor for unmarked gravesites

Jun 9, 2022 | 4:56 PM

TK’EMLUPS — Canada’s Justice Minister announced this week that a special interlocutor has been appointed to coordinate the federal government’s response to the unmarked grave confirmations at former residential school sites.

Kimberly Murray, who is a former director with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, was chosen for the job. The special interlocutor will work with Indigenous leaders and communities to identify what’s needed, and recommend a new legal framework that would make sure unmarked burials and graves of children at former residential schools are treated with respect, and culturally appropriate protocols.

Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) says the move is a sign of progress in what’s expected to be a lengthy undertaking.

“Her (Murray’s) background is extremely diverse, not only is it legal, but it is also her experience and involvement in the National Truth and Reconciliation (Commission),” explains Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir.

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Kúkpi7 Casimir says Murray’s career as a lawyer, and her involvement in previous reconciliation projects gives them confidence in how the communication with the federal government will be handled.

“The biggest piece that I am looking forward to with working with the special interlocutor is that she’s going to be able to provide some sound advice and she’s going to be that liaison between First Nations, and us here at TteS, but also that liaison between the federal government,” says Casimir.

Last summer, Casimir says she had met with provincial and federal officials and noted how important it would be to have someone in this role as investigations into the unmarked graves picked up.

“Not only is it our people that are asking questions, there’s also non-Indigenous as well. And it’s also about making sure that we create that path with the utmost respect and honour and dignity, and of course including the parameters of the law.”

Tk’emlúps is currently working on bringing in the new liaison for a visit with leadership, to see the site, and learn more about their ongoing efforts to collect information.

“I am looking forward to her coming to meet with our community,” adds Casimir. “She should be here, I’m hoping, within the next week or two.”