The final structures of a former residential school on Vancouver Island were dismantled in the presence of survivors and their families. The Christie Residential School, established in 1900 on Meares Island and later moved to Tofino in 1971, remained operational until 1983, making it one of the last running residential schools in British Columbia.
Survivor Bruce Lucas described his return to the school site as “intimidating” but ultimately “refreshing for the spirit.” Before the heavy machinery took over, survivors personally dismantled parts of the school using rocks and crowbars. Lucas was given the honor of being the first to start demolishing the buildings with an excavator.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Lucas shared his initial fear upon arriving at the school at the age of six. While he acknowledged positive memories of engaging in sports, he highlighted the overall traumatizing experience that left him with lasting negative memories and ongoing emotional recovery.
Over the years, sections of the school have been repurposed or destroyed, but three outbuildings remained at the original Meares Island location. The Ahousaht Residential School Research team facilitated free ferry transportation for former students to witness the demolition, accompanied by a healing ceremony and support services.
Former student Thomas Rush, who spent eight years at the school, expressed the significance of being present during the demolition for closure. The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation revealed that the school, funded by the Canadian government and operated by various Roman Catholic orders under different names, including Kakawis Indian School and Tofino Hotel, was associated with the deaths of 46 children.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation reported over 4,100 documented deaths of children in residential schools, emphasizing the severe impacts of malnourishment and disease. Testimonies from over 6,000 attendees across the country described widespread physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, leading to the characterization of the system as a “cultural genocide.”
The ongoing demolition process is anticipated to continue for several days, with Elder Cliff Atleo emphasizing its significance in the healing and restoration of the property. Support services are available for individuals affected by their residential school experiences, including the national Indian Residential School Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419.
