HST-5061-3

This sec 5 optional History course is worth 3 credits. No Program of Study or DED have been published.

Residential Schools

The legacy of Residential Schools has a lasting effect on the social landscape of Canada. While many Indigenous people's are not only still feeling the effects of first hand experience, the overwhelming amount of intergenerational trauma continues to show it's face in our social and systemic structures. It is important for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada to recognize the collective impact of Residential Schools, as well as the ways in which people can reconcile this past and create better futures.

Themes and Concepts

Themes

  • Identity

  • Relationship

  • Stories

  • Culture

  • Trauma

  • Tradition

  • Stereotypes

  • Land

  • Colonization

Concepts

  • Indigenous Education

  • Formal Education

  • Federal Policy and Legislation

  • Indian Act

  • Indian Agents and "Being Taken Away:"

  • Christianity

  • Perspectives from key players

  • Indian Day Schools

  • Geography of schools

  • Testimonials and Survival Stories

  • Social Action and Reconciliation

Assignments and Activities

Document Analysis

Using primary resources, students can work on unpacking perspectives and truths about Residential Schools complex history. The documents can be accessed through Archives Canada: https://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/aboriginal-heritage/resources-researchers/Pages/residential-schools-resource-sheets.aspx

Guest Speakers and Online Testimony

There is a number of resources that are available for listening to survivor testimony from Residential Schools. There are also lots of people who can do presentations from communities about the impact of residential schools.

Giving students an opportunity to listen is important and essential. Especially to the truths of others.