Critical Review on the Impact of Residential Schools in Canada

Abstract

Residential schools were advertised as a chance for Aboriginal children to have a “free and equal chance with children in urban centers. However, this was far from the case; students were mistreated and taught to despise their Aboriginal culture and embrace European culture. They were presented as free and serene places where children would receive education, be allowed to play and run like any other Canadian school. The reality was far from this picture-perfect image that was presented to the public; students were abused, over-worked and underfed. Assiniboia Indian Residential School was one of the first residential high schools in Manitoba. It offered older children more freedoms compared to other residential schools. Although it was far from perfect, with many aboriginal children facing sexual assault, living structured lives, and being taken away from their families, the school treated students better than most residential schools allowing students to go into the city, work for some pocket money and live less structured lives.  The study undertook a critical review with aim of assessing the impacts of Residential Schools.

Keywords: Residential Schools & Canada