OTTAWA,
ON, March 6, 2025 /CNW/ - Les Femmes Michif
Otipemisiwak stands in solidarity with the Survivors of the
Île-à-la-Crosse residential school in Saskatchewan and acknowledges their
hard-fought victory in gaining recognition for their
experiences.
The settlement, which includes $27
million for Survivors and $10
million for trauma-related services and healing, marks a
significant step toward justice for Métis Survivors of the
Île-à-la-Crosse residential school. During its operation from the
1820s until 1976, 1,500 children were forced to attend the school,
the majority of them being Métis, before it finally closed after
being severely damaged by a fire. Survivors of the school say they
suffered traumatic abuses while in attendance.
"We recognize this historic settlement as an important step
toward justice for Métis Survivors and honour their unwavering
advocacy in the face of profound hardship," says LFMO President
Melanie Omeniho.
Métis survivors have long been excluded from compensation
agreements, leaving their pain and trauma largely unacknowledged.
The abuses they endured in residential schools have been
consistently overlooked, denying them the recognition and justice
they deserve for their suffering. Survivors of the Île-à-la-Crosse
school have fought tirelessly for justice and recognition,
embodying the courage and resilience of the Métis people. The
class-action lawsuit against Canada was first filed in 2005, followed by
additional suits in 2016 and 2022, all seeking compensation for the
harms suffered at Île-à-la-Crosse School. This settlement marks a
significant step toward acknowledging the historical injustices
endured by Métis Survivors.
However, no settlement can fully heal the deep spiritual and
emotional wounds carried by Survivors, their families, and the
Métis Nation as a whole. True healing requires long-term access to
trauma-informed support services, stronger protections for Métis
rights, and a continued commitment to revitalizing our languages,
traditions, and cultural values.
Our hearts are with the Survivors of Île-à-la-Crosse as they
celebrate this long-awaited victory—a testament to their unwavering
strength and fortitude. Yet, the fight for justice is far from
over. True reconciliation demands action, accountability, and a
commitment to ensuring that no Survivor is left behind.
About LFMO:
LFMO speaks as the national and
international voice for the Women of the Métis Nation across the
Métis Motherland, spanning Ontario
westward to British Columbia. Les
Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak aims to consult, promote, and represent
the personal, spiritual, social, cultural, political, and economic
interests and aspirations of women and gender diverse people.
SOURCE Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak
