Flags across London flew at half-mast Thursday as the community joined in a country-wide mourning for the victims of a mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.
The gesture matters at times like these, said the head of national grief organization.
“In a school setting, it’s a way of saying to the children, we know that you must be feeling concerned and worried about this and sorrowful for the people there,” said Paul Adams, co-chair of the Canadian Grief Alliance. “This is a gesture that tries to express your pain and concern.
Adams included that symbolic acts transform individual grief into a collective expression of sorrow, helping the affected community know that their fears and emotions are heard.
RCMP confirm nine people have died, including the shooter, following Tuesday’s tragedy that has sent shockwaves across Canada.
“Part of dealing with grief is hearing condolences,” he said. “Knowing that people across the country share your pain can be meaningful.”
Fanshawe’s flags will be lowered until February 18 in recognition of the tragedy that claimed nine lives, including the shooter, the college said in a statement.
Across London, other organizations, including Thames Valley District School Board also lowered flags at all schools and board buildings, as did other organizations including London Police Services.
“The devastating tragedy in Tumbler Ridge deeply saddens us. On behalf of the London Police Service, we extend our condolences to the families and loved one’s grieving,” London Police Chief, Thai Truong said on Twitter. “We are thinking of the survivors, first responders, and the entire community. We grieve with you. We stand with you.”
Local officials and organizations across the city have echoed those sentiments, lowering flags as a sign of solidarity and shared mourning.
