Hon. Judy A. White: Honourable senators, all hearts are hurting today. We have often believed that such atrocities could not happen here. That’s what made it more devastating to learn of the heartbreaking loss in British Columbia yesterday. It was an unimaginable shock for all Canadians, but particularly for those of the small community of Tumbler Ridge, for whom yesterday’s date will forever be etched in memories.

It is profoundly unfair and overwhelmingly heartbreaking to be grieving so many young lives and have so many injured in such a horrific act of violence. Families, classes and friend groups are forever changed, and their grief is shared by Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

As our nation grieves, I hope that those in British Columbia, and especially in Tumbler Ridge, can feel the solidarity from the rest of this great nation as they navigate their profound trauma and mourn this unthinkable tragedy.

I also want to offer my condolences, on behalf of our group, to the community of Kitigan Zibi, who grieve their own loss today. The tragic loss of two more innocent children — again, in such a small community — is devastating. Words feel insufficient for their losses.

Senator Brazeau, please know that we are all holding you and your community in our thoughts.

The irony is these heartbreaking events have created permanent effects on our country during national Kindness Week. In the face of such heartache, please let us find moments of kindness and compassion as we support each other through the shared grief.

On behalf of the Progressive Senate Group, I offer our profound condolences on these tragedies.

Wela’lin, thank you.