When the Town of Saugeen Shores learned of the recently discovered gravesites at several former residential schools, it decorated  the Zgaa-biig-ni-gaan bridge with orange ribbons, in consultation with the Saugeen First Nation.

“And we continue to work together to advance permanent recognition at the Saugeen Shores Town Hall," announced Chief Lester Anoquot today.

The Saugeen Abinoojinh Zagaswe’idiiwini youth council reacted to the sudden removal of the ribbons in early August by requesting that they be put back.  When they didn't hear back from the Town of Saugeeen Shores, they created new bows and attached them along the bridge. "This is personal for us," they said, explaining that they were third generation residential school survivors.

There has been no explanation of the reasoning or timing for the remomal of the original tribute bows, but the Town issued a media release today  - "Recognizing the ribbons will not stand the test of time, the Town moved forward with the commissioning of a permanent testament to the pain, suffering, and death inflicted on indigenous children at Canada’s residential schools."

"Brent Henry, a local, indigenous artist, has been commissioned by the Town to prepare a permanent tribute that will be prominently displayed at the Town Hall," the release continues.

The President of the Saugeen Abinoojinh Zagaswe’idiiwini was surprised by the announcement, which was delivered to her place of work today before being released to the public, but she believes her members are happy with their highly visible witness, and will be pleased with a permanent tribute.

The Town hopes to unveil the permanent display, to be located in the Municipal Office, in the fall of 2021, says Mayor Luke Charbonneau.

source: media release; interview