Settlements, Agreements & Apologies
The Sixties Scoop and the Canadian Residential Schools represent two of the most tragic and significant chapters in Canadian history concerning Indigenous peoples. The Sixties Scoop refers to the mass removal of Indigenous children from their families between the 1960s and 1980s, placing them into foster homes or adopting them out to non-Indigenous families, often resulting in a loss of cultural identity. The Canadian Residential Schools system, operating from the late 19th century until the late 20th century, was designed to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture. These schools subjected children to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, leading to long-lasting trauma across generations. Efforts to address these injustices have included legal settlements, public apologies, and various agreements aimed at reconciliation and healing. The steps taken so far mark significant progress, but the journey towards justice and reparations continues, with plans for the future focusing on ongoing support and reconciliation initiatives.
Sixties Scoop Settlements, Agreements, and Apologies
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Settlements:
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In 2017, the Canadian government agreed to a $750 million settlement with survivors of the Sixties Scoop, providing compensation for loss of cultural identity.
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Individual compensation payments were set at a maximum of $50,000 per claimant, with funds also allocated for a foundation to support healing and reconciliation.
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Agreements:
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An agreement to establish a Sixties Scoop Healing Foundation was included in the settlement, aimed at supporting survivors and preserving their culture.
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Apologies:
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In 2017, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a formal apology for the Sixties Scoop, acknowledging the government's role in the harm caused to Indigenous families and communities.
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Canadian Residential Schools Settlements, Agreements, and Apologies
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Settlements:
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The Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA) of 2007 was the largest class-action settlement in Canadian history, amounting to approximately $5 billion.
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Compensation packages included Common Experience Payments (CEP) for all students who attended the schools and Independent Assessment Process (IAP) payments for those who suffered serious physical and sexual abuse.
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Agreements:
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The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established as part of the IRSSA to document the experiences of survivors and provide recommendations for reconciliation.
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The establishment of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation was agreed upon to house the archives and findings of the TRC.
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-Apologies:
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In 2008, Prime Minister Stephen Harper delivered a formal apology on behalf of the Canadian government for the residential schools system, acknowledging the profound harm inflicted on Indigenous children and communities.
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Various religious organizations, including the Catholic Church, have also issued apologies for their roles in operating the schools.
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Future Initiatives
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Moving forward, Canada plans to continue addressing the legacy of the Sixties Scoop and Residential Schools through sustained support for survivors and their communities. Efforts include implementing the TRC's 94 Calls to Action, which outline comprehensive steps for reconciliation across various sectors such as education, health, and justice. The government is also committed to providing ongoing funding for mental health services and cultural revitalization programs. Enhancing public awareness through education and commemorative initiatives remains a priority to ensure that the history and impacts of these injustices are not forgotten. Furthermore, new agreements and policies are being developed to prevent the recurrence of such practices, emphasizing the importance of preserving Indigenous culture and family unity. By maintaining a collaborative approach with Indigenous leaders and communities, Canada aims to foster healing and build a more equitable future for all its citizens.​​​