How Residential Schools Still Affect Families Today

Residential schools are often described as part of Canada’s past. But for many Indigenous families, the impact is still present today. It shows up in relationships, identity, mental health, and community connections. The experiences of survivors did not end when the schools closed—they continue through generations.

At the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association, this reality is central to the work being done. Families are still navigating the effects, while also finding ways to heal, reconnect, and move forward together.

What Were Residential Schools? (Quick Context)

Residential schools were government-funded and church-run institutions designed to separate Indigenous children from their families, languages, and cultures. Children were taken from their homes and placed in environments where their identities were suppressed.

The goal was assimilation. The result was deep and lasting harm.

Many survivors experienced emotional neglect, cultural loss, and disconnection from family life. When the schools closed, survivors returned home—but often without the tools, support, or cultural grounding they needed.

The impact did not stop there. It carried forward into the lives of their children and grandchildren.

What Is Intergenerational Trauma?

Intergenerational trauma refers to the way trauma is passed down from one generation to the next. It is not always obvious. It can show up in behaviours, emotions, and patterns within families.

For example:

• A parent who never learned how to express affection may struggle to show love
• A family may avoid difficult conversations because of past pain
• Trust may be harder to build, even in safe environments

This is not about blame. It is about understanding how experiences shape people over time.

When children grow up in environments influenced by trauma, they may carry that weight forward—even if they never experienced residential schools themselves.

ALSO READ: The Voices of Resilience: The Power of Survivor Stories

Emotional and Mental Health Impacts on Families

The emotional effects of residential schools are still visible in many families today. These impacts are often complex and deeply personal.

Anxiety, Depression, and Unresolved Grief

Many survivors were never given the space to process what they went through. As a result, feelings of grief, loss, and pain were often carried silently.

This silence can pass through generations. Children and grandchildren may feel the weight of something they cannot fully explain.

Common effects include:

• Ongoing anxiety or fear
• Depression and emotional fatigue
• A sense of loss tied to culture, identity, or family history

Difficulty Expressing Emotions

In residential schools, children were often punished for showing emotion. Over time, this created patterns of emotional suppression.

This can affect how families connect:

• Love may not be expressed openly
• Difficult conversations may be avoided
• Emotional closeness can feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar

These patterns are not intentional. They are learned responses to past experiences.

Parenting and Family Relationships

Family dynamics are one of the most visible areas where intergenerational trauma appears.

Disrupted Parenting Models

Many survivors did not grow up in stable, nurturing family environments. They were separated from their parents during critical stages of development.

As a result, they may not have had examples of:

• Healthy communication
• Emotional support
• Consistent caregiving

When they became parents, they often had to navigate these roles without guidance.

Cycles That Are Hard to Break

Some patterns can repeat across generations:

• Difficulty with trust or attachment
• Challenges in setting boundaries
• Struggles with communication

It is important to approach this with compassion. These cycles are not signs of failure—they are the result of systemic disruption.

At the same time, many families are actively working to break these patterns and build new, healthier connections.

Loss of Culture, Language, and Identity

One of the most lasting impacts of residential schools is the loss of cultural identity.

Children were discouraged—or forced—to stop speaking their languages and practicing their traditions. Over time, this led to a deep disconnection from culture.

What This Looks Like Today

• Many families are reconnecting with languages that were nearly lost
• Younger generations may feel unsure about their identity
• Cultural knowledge may need to be relearned

This loss is not just historical—it affects how people see themselves today.

Why Identity Matters

A strong sense of identity is tied to:

• Confidence and self-worth
• Belonging within a community
• Mental and emotional well-being

Rebuilding that connection is a key part of healing.

You can learn more about cultural initiatives through the association’s work on the
Shingwauk history and legacy.

Trust, Community, and Systemic Impacts

Residential schools did not just affect individuals—they affected entire communities.

Distrust of Institutions

Many survivors experienced harm in systems that were meant to protect them. This has led to lasting distrust of:

• Schools
• Healthcare systems
• Government institutions

This distrust can make it harder for families to access support, even when it is available.

Barriers That Still Exist

Families may face:

• Hesitation to seek mental health support
• Challenges in education systems
• Limited access to culturally appropriate services

These are not just personal challenges—they are systemic issues that continue to affect Indigenous communities.

How Families Are Healing Today

Despite the challenges, there is also strength, resilience, and progress. Many families are actively working toward healing.

Reconnecting with Culture

Cultural reconnection plays a major role in healing:

• Language revitalization programs
• Traditional ceremonies
• Cultural education for younger generations

These efforts help rebuild identity and strengthen community bonds.

Community Support and Storytelling

Sharing stories is a powerful way to heal.

Organizations like the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association create spaces where survivors and families can connect, share, and support one another.

You can explore real experiences through their
Survivor Stories
and community initiatives.

Mental Health and Counselling

Access to culturally informed mental health support is growing. This includes:

• Trauma-informed counselling
• Indigenous-led healing programs
• Community-based support networks

Healing is not the same for everyone. It is a personal and ongoing process.

Why Awareness Still Matters

Many people still view residential schools as something that ended decades ago. But understanding the ongoing impact is essential.

Awareness helps:

• Reduce stigma around trauma and mental health
• Build empathy and understanding
• Support meaningful reconciliation

Education is a starting point. Listening is just as important.

What You Can Do to Support

You do not need to have all the answers to make a difference. Small, informed actions matter.

Here are ways you can help:

• Learn about residential schools and their impact
• Listen to survivor and family stories
• Support Indigenous-led organizations like CSAA
• Share accurate information within your community
• Attend events or educational sessions

You can also visit the CSAA events and gatherings page to stay informed and involved.

ALSO READ: Preserving Indigenous History: The Role of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association

Moving Forward Together

Residential schools are not just a chapter in history—they are part of an ongoing story that continues to shape families today.

But alongside that reality is resilience.

Families are rebuilding connections. Communities are reclaiming culture. Stories are being shared, often for the first time.

Healing is not simple. It takes time, support, and understanding. But it is happening—step by step.

By learning, listening, and supporting organizations like the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association, you become part of that process.

Summary Table: Lasting Impacts and Paths to Healing