Indigenous Peoples Seek Justice for Violations in Quebec Government-Run Schools

A class-action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of Indigenous individuals who were compelled to attend Quebec government-run schools in their communities between the years 1963 and 1978. The plaintiffs, represented by J.J. and A. Je., are alleging intentional violations of their rights to integrity, dignity, safety, and the preservation and advancement of their cultural life, as guaranteed by Quebec’s Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.

Court documents reveal harrowing accounts of abuse suffered by the plaintiffs during their time at these schools, particularly A. Je., who attended the on-reserve school in Lac Simon, Quebec. The school, operated by a school board based in Val-d’Or, Quebec, on behalf of the federal government, created an environment described by A. Je. as “hellish” and akin to a residential school within the community.

Between 1972 and 1982, A. Je. endured physical, psychological, and sexual abuse inflicted by school staff. She also witnessed similar acts of abuse perpetrated against other students. Shockingly, non-Indigenous students were allowed to physically assault Indigenous students without consequences, while severe punishment was imposed on Indigenous students who retaliated against non-Indigenous students.

It is important to note that the 2019 settlement between the federal government and survivors of federally-run schools, amounting to $1.47 billion, did not encompass provincially-run schools like those in Quebec.

The class-action lawsuit seeks a minimum of $20,000 in damages for each individual who was forcibly enrolled in these schools, including their immediate family members. In addition, it seeks further compensation for individuals who suffered specific instances of abuse.

Published on December 25, 2023, this report by The Canadian Press sheds light on the ongoing pursuit of justice by Indigenous communities. Jacob Serebrin, a journalist with The Canadian Press, contributed to this article.