Residential school system

Definition

The residential school system in Canada was a government-sponsored initiative that aimed to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture by removing them from their families and communities. This system operated from the late 19th century until the 1990s and is characterized by its significant social and cultural impact on Indigenous peoples, leading to generational trauma, loss of language and culture, and ongoing efforts for reconciliation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The residential school system was officially created in 1876, with the aim of 'civilizing' Indigenous children by educating them in European ways, often forcibly removing them from their families.
2. Over 150,000 Indigenous children were enrolled in residential schools across Canada, many suffering physical, emotional, and sexual abuse during their time in these institutions.
3. The last residential school closed in 1996, highlighting the long-lasting effects of this system on Indigenous communities and the need for healing.
4. Many Indigenous languages and cultural practices were suppressed within residential schools, resulting in a significant loss of cultural heritage that persists today.
5. Reconciliation efforts have included public apologies from government officials, as well as initiatives aimed at preserving Indigenous culture and language, led by both Indigenous communities and supportive allies.

Review Questions

• What were the primary goals of the residential school system in Canada, and how did it affect Indigenous children?
  • The primary goal of the residential school system was to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture by removing them from their families. This led to profound effects on Indigenous children, including trauma from separation, abuse, and loss of language and cultural identity. Many children faced harsh conditions, which resulted in long-term impacts on their mental health and their communities' social fabric.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous communities in Canada.
  • The long-term impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous communities include significant cultural dislocation and loss of languages, as many children were not allowed to speak their native tongues. This resulted in generational trauma, as families struggled with the psychological aftermath of separation and abuse. The effects can still be seen today in ongoing struggles for identity, healing, and cultural revival within many Indigenous groups.
• Synthesize how the Truth and Reconciliation Commission has addressed the legacy of the residential school system and its role in fostering healing within Indigenous communities.
  • The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has played a crucial role in addressing the legacy of the residential school system by documenting the experiences of survivors and promoting public awareness. Through its reports and calls to action, it aims to foster understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians while encouraging meaningful reconciliation efforts. The Commission's work highlights the importance of acknowledging past injustices to pave the way for healing and restoring relationships within Canadian society.

Related terms

Assimilation: The process through which individuals or groups adopt the cultural norms of another group, often leading to the loss of their original identity.

Indian Act:

A Canadian federal law that governs in matters pertaining to Indian status, bands, and Indian reserves; it played a significant role in shaping policies that led to the establishment of residential schools.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission:

A commission established to address the legacy of the residential school system and promote healing and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.