Residential schools
What was the name of the school Bev Sellars attended?
St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School.
Who played an important role in Bev’s upbringing?
Her grandmother, Gram.
What subject did Bev major in at university?
History
What personal struggles did Bev face after residential school?
Depression and self-doubt
What book did Bev Sellars write?
They Called Me Number One.
How did residential schools impact Bev’s sense of identity?
They stripped her of her cultural heritage and self-worth.
What was the role of elders in Bev’s community?
They passed down knowledge and cultural traditions.
What was Bev’s first impression of university?
She struggled with feeling out of place.
How did the justice system treat Indigenous testimonies?
With disregard and bias.
Why did she write her book?
To share the truth about residential schools and healing.
What punishment did students face for speaking their language?
They were physically punished or humiliated.
How did Bev’s community support each other despite hardships?
They provided emotional and material support.
Which philosophical thinkers did she study?
Plato and Aristotle.
What was one of the biggest obstacles to healing for survivors?
Lack of recognition and support for their trauma.
What impact did her story have?
It raised awareness about residential school trauma.
What emotion did Bev associate with her time at the residential school?
Fear and loneliness.
Why did Bev feel disconnected from her family after residential school?
The school created a barrier between children and their cultural roots.
What realization did she have about history education in Canada?
Indigenous history was often ignored or misrepresented.
How did the RCMP intimidate Indigenous people during inquiries?
By surrounding them with lawyers and dismissing their concerns.
What message does Bev emphasize about Indigenous resilience?
That healing and reclaiming culture are possible.
How did the school justify its treatment of Indigenous students?
By claiming it was for “civilizing” and “educating” them.
How did intergenerational trauma affect Bev’s family?
Many struggled with emotional pain, addiction, and loss of culture.
What profession did Bev pursue after law school?
She worked in Indigenous leadership and advocacy.
What long-term effects did residential schools have on Indigenous communities?
Cultural loss, trauma, and systemic inequalities.
What role does education play in reconciliation?
It helps uncover historical truths and promote justice.