Megan A.

Meaford, Ontario

Grey Roots Regional Heritage Fair

Stolen Children

My project is on the history and legacy of Residential Schools in Canada. It explains the terrible events of Residential Schooling and explores paths of understanding, healing and reconciliation for all Canadians.

 

 

 

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

The most interesting thing that I learned is how little many Canadians know about Residential Schooling. Learning and understanding our collective history, including negative events is essential to creating a better future through understanding and compassion.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

I have learned that prejudice can hurt so many people and that people fear things they don't understand. We would all benefit from trying to see and embrace other perspectives, values and ideas.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

My life today is vastly different from the children that attended Residential Schools in Canada. Our public education system is based on inclusion, respect and diversity- all things denied to Aboriginal children who attended Residential Schools. Even today Aboriginal youth face significant challenges that stem from Residential Schooling.