While a small B.C. town grapples with the aftermath of a mass shooting, local Interlake communities express empathy from half a country away.
On Tuesday, Feb. 10, six children and two adults were killed in a mass shooting in a high school and a home in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. The 2,400-person community is grieving for students, a teacher and family members of the shooter, who also died of a self-inflicted shot. Many others were injured in the incident.
Communities across Manitoba have lowered their flags to half-mast, including the Town of Stonewall, which will keep its flags lowered until Feb. 17 as a symbol of respect, reflection and solidarity with the sorrow-stricken B.C. town.
“In moments like this, distance does not divide us. Communities may be miles apart, but sorrow travels swiftly and compassion even faster. We pause together to honour lives impacted and to hold space for healing,” states a social media post by the Town of Stonewall.
“Our thoughts are with the families, friends, first responders and the entire Tumbler Ridge community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Stonewall council shared condolences with the District of Tumbler Ridge after the tragic mass shooting shook the B.C. community.
“We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss and the many lives impacted. Our thoughts are with the families who are grieving, the friends and classmates facing unimaginable sorrow and the entire community working to support one another in the days ahead,” states a post on the Town of Stonewall Facebook page.
“We also want to recognize and thank the first responders, emergency personnel and all those providing care and support in the midst of this tragedy. Your courage, compassion and dedication do not go unnoticed. From Stonewall to the District of Tumbler Ridge, please know we stand with you. Sending strength, comfort and unwavering support.”
Similarly, Rockwood council acknowledged the tragic event and expressed condolences to the Tumbler Ridge community.
“Council members feel a strong connection to the values of community support, resilience and the creation of compassionate, connected communities nationwide,” states a social media post by the RM of Rockwood. “We see you, Tumbler Ridge.”
In a letter to Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka, Rockwood council extended their deepest condolences to the community in the wake of the tragedy.
“Though we are far away, our thoughts are with students, staff, families and all members of your community during this profoundly difficult time. We recognize the challenges your council and community face in supporting those affected, and we hope that knowing people beyond your province are thinking of you brings some measure of comfort,” states the letter.
“Please accept this letter as a gesture of our solidarity, sympathy and respect. Our thoughts are with your community, and we send our heartfelt support and best wishes for healing and peace.”
Across the Interlake School Division, flags are also flying at half-mast.
“I know I speak for our board of trustees and the entire ISD community when I extend my condolences to everyone who has been impacted by this terrible event,” said school board chair Alan Campbell.
“We know the vital role that public schools play in communities, especially small rural communities, as sources of safety and inclusion for all students, and we’re mindful of the extremely difficult path ahead for families in Tumbler Ridge.”
The safety of Interlake School Division students and staff are the first priority for the board of trustees and senior admin team, he added.
“This is reflected in current divisional and provincial regulations, policies and procedures currently in place and kept up to date. Families are encouraged to engage with their school or divisional leadership teams with any concerns or questions they may have,” said Campbell, who also serves as the president of the Manitoba School Boards Association and the Canadian School Boards Association.
“Supports remain in place in all schools to support students and staff who may require support in the aftermath of this terrible event.”
