Canada's Hidden History: Why Newcomers Need to Understand Residential Schools

Gain a deeper understanding of Canada's history and its journey towards reconciliation in this crucial webinar designed specifically for immigrants.

For many newcomers to Canada, the country's history with Indigenous peoples, notably the traumatic legacy of the residential school system, remains untold.

The residential school system, which operated for over a century, forcibly removed Indigenous children from their families. As the documentary 'They Came for the Children: The Residential Schools' reveals, 'It can start with a knock on the door one morning... it is a day the parents have long been dreading.' This simple sentence encapsulates the fear and helplessness felt by Indigenous families across generations.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established to address the legacy of Canada's residential school system, starkly states: "For tens of thousands of aboriginal children, for over a century, this was the beginning of their residential schooling. They were torn from their parents, who often surrendered them only under threat of prosecution."

The impact of this system was devastating and far-reaching. As one survivor featured in the documentary poignantly puts it: "Everything is based on our land, our heritage, our culture, our traditions and our heritage is all land-based." The schools aimed to erase this connection, operating under the cruel policy to "kill the Indian in the child." Understanding the deep connection Indigenous peoples have with their ancestral lands and the role of the Canadian government in trying to destroy it is crucial to understand the plight of Indigenous peoples today.

Understanding provides context for current issues, fosters empathy, and, importantly, allows immigrants to participate in Canada's ongoing reconciliation efforts. New Canadians can contribute to healing and building a more inclusive society. But it begins with acknowledging that we are also a part of that story.

To bridge this knowledge gap, the London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP) is hosting a special sharing circle on September 26th, 2023, from 2 to 4 PM. A sharing circle is a traditional Indigenous practice where participants share their thoughts and experiences in a respectful and supportive environment. The event will feature a screening of the film we've mentioned here today, followed by the sharing circle led by Indigenous presider Gloria Thomson.

This webinar offers an opportunity to:

• Learn about a critical part of Canadian history often overlooked in integration programs

• Understand the ongoing impacts of the residential school system

• Participate in a traditional sharing circle, fostering cross-cultural understanding

• Discover how newcomers can contribute to reconciliation efforts

Take advantage of this chance to deepen your understanding of Canadian history and your place within it. Register for the webinar here. Together, we can build a Canada that embraces all its peoples and histories.

By engaging with this challenging history, newcomers can actively shape a more just and inclusive Canada for all. Join us on September 26th to start your journey of understanding.