The Law Society of British Columbia (LSBC) has revised its educational materials regarding the discovery of unmarked graves at former Indian Residential Schools. This change comes amid a libel lawsuit filed by lawyer Jim Heller against the LSBC. Heller claims he was labeled a racist and a denialist for advocating the inclusion of the word "potential" in the society's materials about the 215 bodies reported found at the Kamloops Indian Residential School (KIRS) in May 2021.

Initially, the LSBC's course material stated, "On May 27, 2021, the Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc Nation reported the discovery of an unmarked burial site containing the bodies of 215 children on the former Kamloops Indian Residential School grounds." It further asserted that the discovery confirmed the accounts of survivors. However, the LSBC's revised material now emphasizes that the Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc Nation has "undertaken extensive investigative work at the KIRS site" and notes that "preliminary findings" from ground-penetrating radar identified "200 targets of interest at the Kamloops site that are probable burials."

This revision reflects a more cautious stance, aligning with Heller's request. The LSBC's previous position, articulated by its president Brook Greenberg in June, maintained that the original language was "accurate" and did not require changes. The shift in the LSBC's approach raises questions about the implications of labeling Heller as a denialist when the society now adopts a similar level of skepticism.

The ongoing discourse surrounding the discoveries at residential schools remains contentious. Recently, the shishálh First Nation in Sechelt, B.C., reported finding 41 additional unmarked graves near the St. Augustine’s Residential School site, increasing the total suspected graves to 81. Chief Lenora Joe stated, "We have always believed our Elders. This wasn’t a school, it wasn’t a choice, and the children who attended were stolen."

In response to these findings, the B.C. Legislature lowered its flag to half-staff to honor those mourning. Additionally, a report highlighted that archival research has confirmed 171 deaths at Kuper Island residential school, exceeding previous estimates by 50. Survivors have recounted harrowing experiences, including allegations of violence and abuse by staff.

The reluctance of First Nations to provide detailed accounts complicates the narrative surrounding these tragic events. As discussions continue, the hope is that a more nuanced and respectful dialogue can emerge, allowing for a better understanding of the historical context and the impact on Indigenous communities.