September 28, 2026 — Surrey, BC. Just days before the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a gathering of white nationalists on Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc lands sought to mock and intimidate communities impacted by the atrocity of Canada’s residential schools. This was a cowardly act of ignorance and hate.

UFCW Local 247 joins with other unions and social organizations in wholeheartedly condemning these actions, and we express our solidarity with the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc, all Indigenous communities, and all our friends and union siblings who identify as Indigenous.

These kinds of acts intensify the pain felt by survivors and communities impacted by Canada’s colonial legacy.

We must move towards reconciliation, not away from it.

Wednesday is September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day for action and reflection on the colonial legacy of the residential “school” system.

UFCW Local 247 stands with Indigenous communities in confronting the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, the legacy of which is symbolized by Sunday’s disgusting display.

Let our actions bring solidarity and unity in the face of division and hate.

Let us also be reminded that there are more of us than there are of them.

Those who took these actions seek to inflame trauma. For those needing support, the National Residential School Crisis Line is available 24/7: 1-866-925-4419.