indigenous people and intergenerational trauma

Understanding Intergenerational Trauma: A Historical Perspective on Indigenous People in Canada

The legacy of colonization and residential schools has left an indelible mark on the lives of indigenous people in Canada, resulting in intergenerational trauma that continues to affect many communities today. For generations, indigenous children were forcibly taken from their families and enrolled in residential schools, where they experienced physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, cultural suppression, and neglect.

This traumatic experience was not limited to a single generation; instead, it has been passed down through the years, causing feelings of alienation, shame, and anger that have been perpetuated by the lack of understanding and recognition of their experiences. The impacts of residential schools are intergenerational – they continue to affect families and communities long after the last federally run school closed in 1996.

The effects of colonization itself can be considered a collectively experienced trauma. For many Aboriginal people, particularly those living in Manitoba, it is crucial that service providers understand the profound impact that colonization has had on their lives. The term 'Aboriginal' encompasses First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people, regardless of where they live in Canada or whether they are registered under the Indian Act.

The average age of claimants for compensation is 57 years old, indicating the prolonged effects of intergenerational trauma. Moreover, there are approximately 80,000 people alive today who attended residential schools. These statistics underscore the magnitude of the trauma inflicted on indigenous communities and its ongoing impact.

Historical trauma has been defined as 'The cumulative emotional and psychological wounding across generations, including the lifespan, which emanates from massive group trauma.' This concept is particularly relevant in understanding the experiences of indigenous people in Canada. The legacy of colonization and residential schools encompasses all types of developmental trauma, including physical, emotional, and psychological abuse.

Recognizing the historical context of colonization and residential schools is essential for developing culturally responsive services that acknowledge and address the intergenerational trauma affecting indigenous communities. By acknowledging the past and working towards reconciliation, we can begin to heal the wounds inflicted on these communities and work towards a more equitable future.

Indigenous people and intergenerational trauma