Maybe there was a group of students who formed a secret club to write letters to the outside world about the real situation at the Lejac Residential School. They were very careful not to get caught, and these letters eventually led to some outside attention being drawn to the problems at the school, but it was a story that was not widely known until much later.
One of the inspiring stories could be about a student who overcame great hardships at the Lejac Residential School. Despite the difficult conditions, they managed to find a love for learning and later used that knowledge to help their community. They might have started a small school or library in their native village, sharing the importance of education with the younger generation.
Many survivors talk about the poor living conditions in residential schools. They were given meager food rations, and the dormitories were overcrowded and unhygienic. For example, some children got sick frequently but received little medical care. Their stories highlight the inhumane treatment they faced.
A particular survivor tells of the emotional abuse they faced at the residential school. They were constantly made to feel ashamed of their heritage. However, after leaving the school, they worked hard to reconnect with their community. They participated in cultural revival activities. Their story shows how survivors overcame the trauma of the residential school experience and contributed to the preservation of their culture.
At St Paul's Residential School, there might be stories of teachers who went above and beyond. Maybe there was a teacher who organized special nature trips for students to learn about the environment. These trips not only taught academic knowledge but also strengthened the bond between students and nature, and created memories that lasted a lifetime for the students.
One common theme is the loss of cultural identity. In residential schools, children were often forced to abandon their native languages, traditions, and cultural practices. Another theme is the experience of abuse. Many students suffered physical, emotional, and sometimes sexual abuse in these institutions. Also, the theme of resilience is present. Despite the hardships, some students managed to hold on to parts of their identity and later fought for justice and the recognition of the wrongs done in residential schools.
Some survivors talk about the poor living conditions in the indian residential schools. There was a lack of proper food and medical care. They had to endure cold winters without adequate heating. Their traditional clothing was often taken away, and they were made to wear uniforms that were not suitable for the climate. This was all part of an attempt to strip them of their native identities.
One survivor story might be about the separation from family. Children were taken from their homes, which was a deeply traumatic experience. They lost the love and care of their families, and had to adapt to a new and often harsh environment at the residential school.
Perhaps there are stories about the beautiful campus of St Anne's Residential School. The old oak tree in the middle of the campus where students would gather to study or have picnics. There might also be tales of the school's historical events, like the time it was renovated and how the students were involved in the process, and how it changed the overall environment of the school.
At St Mary's Residential School, there might be stories of the dormitory life. For example, late - night talks among students where they shared their dreams and fears. They would sometimes have midnight feasts with snacks they had secretly saved. There could also be a story about a student who found a stray cat on the school grounds and with the help of the school staff, they took care of it. It became a sort of mascot for the students. And then there are the academic achievements. A student might have won a prestigious science competition, which not only made them proud but also put St Mary's on the map in the academic world.
The Kuper Island Residential School Stories are often tales of trauma and abuse. These stories highlight the harsh conditions, cultural suppression, and physical and emotional abuse that Indigenous children endured in the school.