The Law Society of British Columbia (LSBC) has changed its approach regarding the controversy surrounding unmarked graves at former Indian Residential Schools. This shift comes amid ongoing discussions about the findings at these sites, which have sparked significant public interest and concern.

In May 2021, the Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc Nation reported the discovery of an unmarked burial site containing the remains of 215 children at the Kamloops Indian Residential School. The LSBC initially included this information in its educational materials, stating that the discovery confirmed the accounts of survivors. However, the LSBC is now facing a libel lawsuit from one of its own lawyers, Jim Heller, who claims he was labeled a racist and a denialist for suggesting the inclusion of the word "potential" in the materials.

Heller argued that the original wording was too definitive. The LSBC has since revised its educational content to reflect a more cautious stance. The updated materials now emphasize that the Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc Nation has conducted extensive investigations at the Kamloops site and that preliminary findings from ground-penetrating radar identified "200 targets of interest" that are likely burials. This change aligns with Heller's request for a more tentative approach.

The LSBC's previous president, Brook Greenberg, had stated in June that the original language was accurate and did not require changes. The recent revision raises questions about the society's earlier stance and the implications of labeling individuals who seek a more cautious narrative.

In related news, the shishálh First Nation in Sechelt, B.C., recently announced the discovery of 41 additional unmarked graves near the St. Augustine’s Residential School site, bringing the total number of suspected graves to 81. Chief Lenora Joe remarked that survivors had recounted stories of children being taken into the forest by staff and not returning. "We have always believed our Elders. This wasn’t a school, it wasn’t a choice, and the children who attended were stolen," Joe stated.

Additionally, a report indicated that archival research has confirmed 171 deaths at Kuper Island residential school, which is 50 more than previously documented. Survivors have shared harrowing accounts, including allegations of violence and abuse at the school. One survivor recounted witnessing a nun push a young girl out of a third-floor window, while others described horrific practices involving the disposal of children’s remains.

The ongoing revelations about residential schools continue to evoke strong emotions and calls for accountability. The LSBC's revised stance may signal a shift towards a more open dialogue about these sensitive issues, but challenges remain in addressing the historical trauma experienced by Indigenous communities.