The podcast explores the harrowing impact of residential schools on Indigenous children, stripping them of their culture and identity.
The episode emphasizes the need for understanding, recognition, and healing of the painful chapter in Canada's history.
Deep dives
Investigating Indigenous Mysteries and Crimes
In the podcast episode, the host introduces a new season called 'Stolen: Surviving Saint Michael's' where reporter Connie Walker explores mysteries and crimes in Indigenous communities. The season focuses on a residential school in Canada and its harrowing impact on Indigenous children, stripping them of their culture and identity.
Unearthing a Painful Family Story
Connie Walker interviews her brother, Hal, who shares a shocking story about their dad. As a police officer, their father pulled over a car and recognized the driver as a priest who had abused him at the residential school. The father proceeded to assault the priest, revealing the deep trauma and emotional burden he carried from his own experiences.
The Impact of Residential Schools and Inter-generational Trauma
The podcast delves into the history and legacy of residential schools, which forcibly separated Indigenous children from their families and aimed to erase their culture. The resulting trauma and abuse endured by survivors had long-lasting effects on them and future generations. The episode emphasizes the need for understanding, recognition, and healing of this painful chapter in Canada's history.
Reclaiming the Past and Seeking Accountability
Through conversations with her family, including her aunties and uncle, Connie explores her dad's life and the impact of his experiences. The episode highlights the importance of addressing and acknowledging the traumas suffered by victims, and the need to find accountability for those responsible for the abuse. Connie's journey aims to uncover the truth and to rewrite the story of her dad and their family.