Mayor Ashe’s Statement in response to a Councillor’s Harmful Comments on Residential Schools and Reconciliation

Pickering, ON, April 20, 2026 – 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

An official complaint has been filed with the Integrity Commissioner, and the matter will proceed independently through that process. 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.

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.

Kevin Ashe
Mayor, City of Pickering

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population over 118,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.