Image Credit: CFJC Today / File

By Dave Barry

Residential Schools

Williams Lake Mayor apologizes but doesn’t resign

Nov 3, 2021 | 9:48 AM

WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C. — Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb has apologized for offending with his sharing of a Facebook post that supported the work of the residential school system in Canada.

He apologized during Tuesday’s (Nov. 3) council meeting. However he failed to resign as had been demanded by First Nations in the region.

In a news release issued by the City of Williams Lake, Cobb says, “I never anticipated or intend to offend or make light of residential schools, and for those I offended I apologize and am very sorry.”

During the meeting, council members discussed the issue and denounced the posts. Councillors expressed support to advocating for those who were forced to attend residential schools, their families and communities.

Residential school survivor Charlene Belleau spoke to council about the devastating impacts residential school have had on First Nations across Canada. She also updated council on the investigation occurring at St. Joseph’s Mission residential school south of Williams Lake.

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