August 4, 2023 | Author: Sanuli Wijayasundara | Editor: Ruonan Zhao | Photographer: Justin Yu
Indigenous youth bear the burden of the Canadian child welfare system's myriad of pitfalls, obstructing the crucial formation of connections to cultural identity.
Although over 26 years have passed since the last residential school eternally closed its doors, the remnants of such policies continue to manifest in the forms of cultural alienation, intergenerational trauma, and systemic discrimination (justice.gc.ca).
Residential schools, along with other systems such as the 60s Scoop, were institutional tools of genocide meant to take Indigenous children away from their parents, their families, their territories, and their culture, in order to try to obliterate their Indigenous identities (indigenousfoundations.arts.ubc.ca). One of the most potent impacts of the forced removal of children from their families and communities was the deep disruption of the traditional family and community structures that were essential for passing down cultural teachings, values, and support systems. The legacy of destruction caused by such policies continues into the present day, underscoring the need for change.
A profound example of this sentiment manifests in child welfare practices, which have prolonged the deterioration of familial, community, and cultural bonds. The child welfare system compounds the effects of residential schools in a multitude of ways:
Disproportionate Removal: The legacy of colonization and forced assimilation policies has resulted in intergenerational trauma and socio-economic challenges within Indigenous communities. As a result, poverty, substance abuse, inadequate housing, and other challenges are often cited as reasons for child removal, which some advocates say is an inefficient means of addressing the root problem (npr.org).
Cultural Disconnection: Similar to residential schools, the child welfare system often places Indigenous children in non-Indigenous foster homes or institutions, separating them from their families, communities, and cultural heritage. This further exacerbates the cultural disconnection and loss of identity experienced by Indigenous children, contributing to the erasure of their cultural practices and traditions.
Trauma and Intergenerational Impact: The removal of Indigenous children from their families and communities by the child welfare system can lead to additional trauma, perpetuating the intergenerational cycle of trauma initiated by the residential school system. The trauma experienced by parents and families who have had their children taken into care adds to the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
Lack of Indigenous Control: The child welfare system often lacks adequate Indigenous representation and decision-making power, further exacerbating the marginalization of Indigenous communities. The system's failure to consider and incorporate Indigenous perspectives, values, and cultural practices hampers the ability to provide culturally appropriate and holistic support to Indigenous children and families.
Inadequate Support and Resources: There are prevalent shortcomings in the provisions (i.e., resources, funding, and support) to address the complex needs of Indigenous children and families. Insufficient investment in prevention, early intervention, and culturally appropriate services perpetuates the cycle of disadvantage and limits the potential for healing and reunification.
Despite recent reforms such as Bill C-92, progress in the direction of providing Indigenous communities with a larger role in upholding child welfare is necessary. The Canadian government must commit to genuine partnership with Indigenous communities, providing them with the resources, autonomy, and support needed to create a child welfare system that respects and uplifts Indigenous children, ultimately breaking the cycle of intergenerational trauma and fostering
healing and empowerment.
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