What is the legacy of Canadian residential schools, and how have they impacted Indigenous communities?

The legacy of Canadian residential schools is a dark and painful part of Canadian history that has left a lasting impact on Indigenous communities across the country. From the late 1800s to the 1990s, Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families and sent to residential schools operated by churches and the Canadian government. The goal of these schools was to assimilate Indigenous children into Canadian culture and suppress their language, culture, and traditions. The legacy of residential schools includes a long list of intergenerational trauma, including abuse, neglect, cultural genocide, and the loss of language and identity.

One of the most significant impacts of residential schools on Indigenous communities is the ongoing trauma that has been passed down through generations. Many survivors of residential schools have experienced mental, physical, and emotional abuse, which has resulted in addiction, mental health issues, and a host of other problems. Additionally, the loss of language, culture, and identity has made it difficult for Indigenous communities to connect with their past and traditions. Residential schools have also had a significant impact on Indigenous families and communities, as many parents and grandparents were not able to pass on their culture and traditions to their children.

The legacy of residential schools has also had a profound impact on Canadian society as a whole. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has identified 94 calls to action to address the legacy of residential schools and promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. These calls to action include initiatives such as language and cultural revitalization, education, and healing programs for survivors and their families.