Residential school denialists are coming to Kamloops, and they’re proud of it

TRIGGER WARNING: Abuse; Racism; Denialism

Thanks to Chris Dolson for sharing this post from Wilbur Turner

Frances Widdowson, Dallas Brodie, and Jim McMurtry — all well-known figures who deny, mock, and downplay the documented atrocities of residential schools — are advertising a OneBC event at TRU on November 12.

McMurtry even bragged on X, writing “‘Denialists’ assemble in Kamloops in 2 days!” as if mocking survivors, families, and the unmarked graves documented across this country.

This isn’t an innocent “discussion.” It’s a deliberate stunt. They are bringing their Indigenous racism to Kamloops specifically to provoke outrage, to retraumatize a community, and to draw attention through harm.

Kamloops is the last place for this kind of cruelty. This community is still carrying the weight of the findings at Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, and Indigenous students and families here continue to push for safety, truth, and healing.

This must be called out for what it is: a calculated, hateful performance designed to inflame, divide, and deny. We all need to stand firmly with Indigenous people who are once again being targeted by this manufactured “controversy.”

I recognize the importance of free expression and open discourse at public institutions, but I also know TRU has an obligation to safeguard the well-being of students and ensure that events do not promote discrimination, misinformation, or hostility toward marginalized groups. I also sincerely doubt that TRU gave permission for its logo to be put on the poster.

Truth matters. Survivors matter. And Kamloops deserves better than this.

UPDATE: TRU has advised they are aware of this unsanctioned event and will take appropriate action to maintain safety and respond appropriately according to policy and law.

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