IRSSS Condemns Racist Vandalism Targeting Tseshaht First Nation
[Port Alberni, BC), January 22, 2026] –
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) is expressing deep concern following repeated acts of racist vandalism on the Orange Bridge and the “Every Child Matters” message in Port Alberni, located on the territory of Tseshaht First Nation. The escalation of the vandalism to include swastikas - a symbol of genocide and white supremacy - is both disturbing and harmful, reflecting the ongoing presence of racism directed toward Indigenous communities.
The defacement of the Every Child Matters message - an emblem of truth, remembrance, and healing for children impacted by the Indian Residential School system - represents a direct attack on Survivors and the broader process of reconciliation. The Orange Bridge holds significant meaning for individuals connected to the Alberni Indian Residential School, and these repeated acts cause real and lasting harm.
“This is not simply vandalism; it is racism meant to intimidate and retraumatize,” said Angela White, Executive Director of IRSSS. “Incidents such as these make Indigenous communities feel unsafe and highlight a continued pattern of discrimination that endangers Indigenous lives.”
IRSSS is calling on government officials, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to take meaningful action, including:
Investigation of these incidents as hate crimes
Investment in anti-racism education and Survivor-led reconciliation
Stronger protections against hate and discrimination
IRSSS stands firmly with Tseshaht First Nation and acknowledges the community’s resilience and leadership, including the collective efforts undertaken to restore the Orange Bridge. Acts of care and solidarity from community members demonstrate that hate will not prevail.
For more than 30 years, IRSSS has supported Survivors and their families through the ongoing impacts of intergenerational trauma. The organization remains committed to healing, justice, and reconciliation and calls on all leaders and community members to stand with Indigenous peoples in confronting racism.
Individuals affected by this incident can access support through IRSSS’s 24/7 Crisis Line at 1‑800‑721‑0066, or request support services online at irsss.ca.
Hate has no place in our communities.
About Indian Residential School Survivor Society
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) is an Indigenous‑led registered Canadian charity that has supported Survivors, families, and communities for over three decades. Through culturally grounded healing, wellness programs, crisis response, and environmental emergency supports, IRSSS remains committed to advancing reconciliation through Survivor‑centered care.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact IRSSS Communications at communications@irsss.ca