The Tragic Mortality Rates in Canadian Residential Schools: An Examination of Historical Data

The question of the mortality rates among native children in Canadian residential schools remains a deeply troubling and highly contentious issue. It is true that, in the early years of these institutions, the mortality rate among students was alarmingly high, with estimates of 40-60%. While it is important to understand the context and the evolution of these schools over time, the stark reality of the situation and its impact on the Aboriginal communities in Canada cannot be ignored.

Historical Context and Early Years of Resettlement

The residential school system in Canada was established with the intention of assimilating Aboriginal people into mainstream Canadian society. However, it quickly became clear that the system was fundamentally flawed. From the very beginning, the primary mode of instruction was not the transmission of knowledge, but control and suppression of Aboriginal culture and identity. This was achieved through strict regulations, harsh discipline, and the complete disconnection from home and family life.

The early residential schools were characterized by inadequate care, poor living conditions, and inadequate nutrition. These factors, combined with the high prevalence of communicable diseases, such as tuberculosis and measles, led to the tragic mortality rates among the students. Reports from the early years of these institutions paint a picture of neglect, where the survival of students was not a priority. The lack of basic healthcare and the prevalence of overcrowding created an environment in which many students succumbed to illness or died accidentally.

The Evolution of Mortality Rates Over Time

Over time, the Canadian government and church organizations responsible for the operation of these schools made some small improvements. Measures were introduced to address living conditions and nutritional needs. However, these changes were far from sufficient to alleviate the systemic issues that had been present since the schools' inception.

Despite the implementation of some reforms, the mortality rate remained alarmingly high. Even in the later years, the rate was not significantly reduced. The reasons for this are multifaceted and deeply rooted in the cultural and systemic oppression faced by Aboriginal people. The trauma and loss of children in residential schools had long-lasting effects on the Aboriginal communities, with the mortality rates serving as a stark testament to the failure of the residential school system.

Conclusion and Ongoing Implications

The high mortality rates among native children in Canadian residential schools were a result of a series of tragic and hauntingly avoidable events. The system was built on the premise of erasing Aboriginal culture and identity, and the consequences were devastating. The legacy of these schools continues to haunt the Aboriginal communities, with intergenerational trauma, loss, and the ongoing struggle for healing and justice.

Related Keywords and Links

Keywords:

residential schools Canadian history Aboriginal children mortality rates

Links:

Canadian Human Rights Foundation - Reparations for Residential Schools Indigenous Teaching Portals - Residential Schools: Part 3

Further Reading:

Government of Canada - What Came Before the 1860s Library and Archives Canada - Indian Residential Schools Information