Pickering Mayor Kevin Ashe yesterday described a councillor’s comments on residential schools and reconciliation as harmful adding that the matter has been referred to the city’s Integrity Commissioner.
“I want to acknowledge the harm caused by recent comments made by a member of Pickering City Council regarding the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation’s investigations at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School site,” said Ashe in an issued statement.
An official complaint has been filed with the Integrity Commissioner, and the matter will proceed independently through that process,” Mayor Ashe said.
Sincere Apologies
“I offer my sincere apology to indigenous community members, survivors, families, and all those affected by these remarks. Comments that dismiss, distort, or cast doubt on the truths shared by survivors and indigenous communities are deeply hurtful. They undermine reconciliation, re-traumatize those carrying the legacy of residential schools, and have no place in respectful public discourse,” he said.
At this time, our priority is to act with care, ensure accountability, and strengthen relationships. Myself, other members of council, and city staff are in conversation with indigenous community partners on how to support healing. Until then, we remain committed to walking alongside each other, guided by truth, compassion, humility, and friendship.
Truth And Reconciliation Commission of Canada
Ashe pointed out that: “The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada gathered testimony from more than 6,500 survivors and witnesses and reviewed millions of federal records to support our education on the systemic harms, cultural genocide, and intergenerational traumas caused by residential schools. These are not matters for political speculation or denial.”
He said the legacy of residential schools persists in our everyday institutions, and we must hold public servants accountable to our responsibility to acknowledge our shared history, honour survivors, and advance meaningful efforts in Truth and Reconciliation.
Healing Is Critical
“We also recognize that the efforts led by indigenous communities to uncover truth, honour those impacted, and guide healing are critical to advancing reconciliation and shared understanding. Grounded in sacred and culturally significant practices, this work must be approached with patience, co-operation, and respect.
Note: To anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of a residential school experience, support is available through the Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1.866.925.4419, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Councillor Robinson’s Post
On April 8, Pickering Councillor Lisa Robinson shared a post on X (see below).
215 ‘Mass Graves’ at Kamloops: Zero Bodies Found After 5 Years – The Lie Exposed
In May 2021, the world was told a horror story: 215 Indigenous children found in “mass graves” at Kamloops Residential School.
Flags flew at half-mast for months. Churches were burned. Statues… pic.twitter.com/LB3ktQEh1l
— Lisa Robinson (@LifelibertyLisa) April 8, 2026
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