Pictured above: Members of the Gods Lake Narrows community walking to the township’s centre

Residents of Gods Lake Narrows, MB came together on June 15 to stand at over 250 participants strong in a community-wide walk held in light of the children's remains found at former residential school sites across the country.

Two Jordan's Principle workers at the Gods Lake Narrows Office visited the community's Northern store to purchase groceries in preparation for the feast that would be held later in the day, following the walk. They were surprised when store manager Scott Irvine offered to cover the cost of their cart of groceries – expecting nothing in return. Irvine was equally surprised to receive a touching gift of orange t-shirts for him and his family in return, along with a meaningful invitation shortly after.

Councillor Jonathan Mason of Gods Lake First Nation called an hour after the visit to thank Irvine and personally invite him to participate in the community-wide walk, organized by Jordan’s Principle and God’s Lake First Nation.

Attending community members were split into four groups, each starting at different points on the edge of the township, then made their way inwards towards the town centre. Each group walked for approximately an hour from each of their assigned points, before coming together to celebrate the feast. 

“There was an incredible sense of solidarity in the air during the walk," said Irvine, in reflection of the event. "Everyone in the community was committed to taking care of one another. I saw kids with signs saying ‘Every Child Matters,’ and it really impressed me how even at their age, they know to call for justice and healing. As a manager at Northern, I’m committed to helping out in any way I can.”