Hundreds of Île-à-la-Crosse Residential School Survivors Come Together for a Historic Conference Focused on Healing and Justice

Press Release

Saskatoon, SK, March 24, 2023 – The Île-à-la-Crosse Survivors Committee, with support from the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S), are pleased to be hosting hundreds of Survivors and their families of the Île-à-la-Crosse Residential School in a historic conference from March 24th to 26th 2023.

This year marked a major milestone in the fight for justice and recognition for the Survivors and families of Île-à-la-Crosse Residential School, with the launch of a new class action lawsuit against Canada and Saskatchewan. This follows years of advocacy and resiliency from Survivors and failed attempts to negotiate with the governments of Saskatchewan and Canada for fair compensation.

“For generations, Survivors have fought successive governments to have their experiences recognized and to ensure justice,” stated MN–S Vice President Michelle LeClair, “We urge both governments to come to the table and negotiate a fair settlement for Survivors and their families. Important dialogue has begun with Canada, but we are still waiting for the government of Saskatchewan to do what is right and work with our Survivors.”

The Survivor’s Conference has been organized to bring Survivors and their families together for support and solidarity, as we collectively seek justice for the abuses students suffered while attending the residential school. The conference will allow Survivors to tell their stories in a safe setting, while also sharing information regarding the class action lawsuit and presentations throughout the weekend.

“Our Nation was built on community. The links between our people have sustained our Nation for generations, ensuring the survival of Métis customs and traditions,” explained Vice President LeClair, “the Survivors of Île-à-la-Crosse exemplify the resiliency of Métis people. As the Métis Government in Saskatchewan, we are honoured to support Survivors as they continue their pursuit of justice.”

The weekend’s full program can be found on the United4Survivors.ca website. A livestream of the opening ceremonies and keynote presentations will also be available.

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About the Île-à-la-Crosse Boarding School Steering Committee

The Île-à-la-Crosse Boarding School Steering Committee Inc. is comprised of 12 board members representing twenty communities in Northwest Saskatchewan. The committee has been actively advocating for Survivors of the Ile a la Crosse Boarding School for over twenty years. Founding members of the committee include Antoinette Lafleur, Emile Janvier, Margaret Aubichon, and Duane Favel.

About Métis Nation–Saskatchewan

Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) is the recognized government of the Métis Nation in Saskatchewan. MN–S is built on a foundation of Métis identity, culture, values, and language. MN–S works to advance Métis rights and recognition. MN–S represents the political, socioeconomic, cultural, and educational interests of more than 80,000 Métis in the province through an elected representative system at local, regional, and provincial levels.

For Media Inquiries:

Rena Montgomerie
MN–S Senior Communications Officer
r.montgomerie@mns.work
306-250-1092

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