Residential school
What was the name of the residential school Bev Sellars attended?
St. Joseph’s Mission.
What Indigenous group is Bev Sellars from?
Xat’sull (Soda Creek First Nation).
What is one traditional practice that Bev’s grandmother tried to preserve?
Storytelling.
Which two institutions were responsible for running residential schools?
The Canadian government and the Christian churches.
What are some of the common emotional effects experienced by residential schools survivors?
Anxiety, depression, and PTSD
What was the primary purpose of residential schools according to the Canadian government?
To assimilate them
Who played an important role in teaching Bev about her culture and traditions?
Her grandmother.
Why were indigenous languages discouraged or forbidden in residential schools?
The government wanted to assimilate indigenous children into Canadian society.
What was the official government policy that justified the creation of residential schools?
The policy of assimilation.
Why is story telling an important of the indigenous healing?
It helps survivors process their experiences and pass down their history to future generations.
What were some of the punishments students received at St. Joseph’s Mission for speaking their native language?
Beatings, mouth washing with soap, and other physical punishments.
How did Bev’s family react to her experiences in residential school?
Many had also suffered similar trauma and struggled to openly discuss their experiences.
How did indigenous communities resist assimilation’s efforts?
By continuing to practice their language, traditions and advocating for their rights.
When did the Canadian government officially apologize for residential schools?
2008
How did Bev sellars personally work towards healing from her trauma?
Trough writing, activism, and reconnecting with her cultural heritage.
How did residential schools contribute to the loss of Indigenous culture and identity?
By prohibiting students from speaking their native language, practicing traditions, and being separated from their families.
What personal struggles did Bev face as a result of her time at residential school?
Depression, alcoholism, and struggles with self-identity.
What role did indigenous activism play in addressing residential schools abuse?
It led to apologies from the government, reconciliation efforts, and compensation for survivors.
What was the role of the truth and reconciliation commission?
To document the history of the residential schools, listen to survivors, and promote healing and reconciliation.
What is intergenerational trauma?
The passing down of trauma from one generation to the due to historical oppression and suffering.
What long-term effects did residential schools have on survivors and their families?
Intergenerational trauma, loss of cultural identity, mental health struggles, and substance abuse issues.
What motivated Bev Sellars to write They Called Me Number One?
She wanted to raise awareness about the impact of residential schools and help others heal.
How have indigenous communities reclaimed their traditions after the closure of residential schools?
Through language revitalization programs, cultural ceremonies, and education initiatives.
What are some of the waya the Canadian government has tried to make amends for the harm caused by residential schools?
Formal apologies, financial compensation, and funding for the indigenous education and cultural programs.
What are some initiatives indigenous communities have taken to support residential schools survivors?
Counseling programs, cultural revitalization efforts, and community support groups