TO: COMMISSIONERS TO THE 38TH GENERAL COUNCIL

MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL COUNCIL EXECUTIVE

THE ALL NATIVE CIRCLE CONFERENCE

BRITISH COLUMBIA NATIVE MINISTRIES COUNCIL

PRESBYTERY SECRETARIES

FROM: THE RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS STEERING COMMITTEE

Dear Friends,

At the November 2003 meeting of the General Council Executive, the Residential Schools Steering Committee was asked to distribute a paper outlining the background to recent decisions made by the Steering Committee and affirmed by the General Council Executive with regard to the Baxter Class Action (a class action launched in Ontario representing all survivors of residential schools and their families). We are enclosing that background paper.

As well, we are also sending a document entitled "Building Towards Right Relationships" in which the Steering Committee has articulated the six principles which will guide the church in any processes related to the legacy of the residential schools system. The General Council Executive approved these principles last November.

Finally, we are also enclosing the most recent "Update" from the Steering Committee. It includes material related to the education and advocacy work of the church that is happening at both local and national levels.

Response to any of the material included in this mailing will be welcomed by members of the Residential Schools Steering Committee which meets again in June.