One night while listening to CBC Radio One, I tuned into a show called "Breaking The Silence". Ted Quewezance of the Keeseekoose First Nation shared his experience as a survivor of Canada’s residential schools. He spoke about the difficulty of speaking out, even within his own community, and how Canada has often failed in reconciliation, favoring compensation over truth-telling.
During a visit to a friend in Alert Bay, we explored the island for a few days. From park trails and boardwalks to remnants of the fishing and cannery industries, the island told stories of a thriving past. Near the museum, I noticed a group of young trees growing among rubble. It was St. Michael’s Residential School, the last residential school to operate in Canada. Standing there, I felt a sudden chill and realized how little I knew about residential schools and their profound impact on communities and the country.
History of St. Michael’s Residential School
Constructed in 1929, St. Michael’s served Aboriginal communities from Campbell River to Saint Rupert. Operated by the Anglican Church, it embodied the goal of forced assimilation. In 1934, the Indian Residential School Commission stated:
“Almighty God for what has been accomplished: for a race of people brought in the shortest period of time known in history from the most debasing savagery to citizenship both in the Kingdom of our God and in his God-blessed Dominion of Canada.”
These words reveal the true purpose of these institutions: to erase Indigenous culture and identity.
The Haunted Building and Its Legacy
The school closed in 1975, but its shadow lingered over the community. Forced assimilation, family separation, and cultural loss left lasting scars. By the early 2010s, the building had deteriorated, becoming a symbol of trauma rather than heritage. Roof leaks, water damage, asbestos, and lead paint made it unsafe. For survivors, its presence was a constant reminder of past pain. Namgis First Nation
In 2015, the decision was made to demolish the building, not just as a structural removal, but as a communal act of healing. Namgis First Nation
Healing and Remembrance Ceremony
On February 18, 2015, the ’Namgis First Nation hosted a ceremony attended by survivors, elders, community members, church leaders, politicians, and descendants. A screen covered the front stairs of the school, symbolically shielding the pain. Lifted and lowered four times, the gestures represented both grief and commitment to move forward. Drumbeats, mourning songs, and eagles overhead witnessed this moment of communal healing.
Heavy equipment then demolished the front porch as participants cheered, blew car horns, and chanted: “Close that door!” “Tear it down!”Times Colonist
Further Reading & Sources
For historical context, survivor testimonies, and documentation of St. Michael’s Residential School and its demolition:
