Quebec Cree Families Surge in Boarding Home Compensation Claims

UPDATE: More than 500 Cree families in Quebec have stepped forward to join a class-action lawsuit seeking compensation for the traumatic experiences endured in government-run boarding homes. This surge in claims comes as the legacy of the late Kenneth Weistche, a prominent advocate for justice, continues to inspire many.

Roy Weistche, Kenneth’s brother, recalls the harrowing experience of being taken from his community in Waskaganish to live with a non-Indigenous family in Gatineau, over 900 kilometers away. Kenneth, who passed away in November 2023, was a trailblazer in demanding accountability for the injustices faced by Indigenous children in residential schools.

The ongoing Indian Boarding Homes and Day Scholar class-action settlements aim to provide compensation to Indigenous individuals forcibly removed from their communities. Survivors can receive $10,000 under Category 1, while Category 2 awards can range from $10,000 to $200,000, based on the severity of abuse reported. Applications for both categories are open.

“We relive the experience when we apply,” Roy Weistche expressed, reflecting on the profound impact of his own nine years in residential school. The emotional toll extends beyond the children, as parents, too, faced devastating separations. “They cried a lot for their children,” he added, emphasizing the overlooked grief experienced by families.

Lawyer Marsela Ianni from the Montreal-based Dionne Schulze law firm, which specializes in Indigenous law, confirmed that they are assisting over 500 Cree individuals with their claims. “This injustice had to be repaired, not only addressed but acknowledged,” Ianni stated, highlighting the firm’s commitment to bringing justice to survivors.

As of now, across Canada, there have been 23,729 Category 1 claims filed, with 5,597 approved and 6,621 still under review. For Category 2, 6,539 claims have been submitted, with only 245 approved thus far, indicating the overwhelming number of applicants seeking redress for their suffering.

The law firm has traveled extensively throughout Eeyou Istchee, including communities like Waskaganish, Nemaska, and Chisasibi, where they opened over 90 claims—the highest number in a single community. Their next visits are planned for spring 2024 to Waswanipi, Oujé-Bougoumou, and Mistissini, ensuring that legal services are accessible to all affected families.

Common issues that arise in self-filed claims often include missing documentation or unchecked boxes. Ianni encourages applicants to double-check their submissions, as the processing time for completed claims typically spans six to eight months.

Roy Weistche remains hopeful that the compensation will aid in healing, but he acknowledges that financial assistance cannot erase the past. “We still live our lives and bring up our families,” he said, urging survivors to apply for compensation. “Building cabins is a way of being out on the land, taking your family and your grandchildren.”

The deadline for submitting claims is early 2027, and as the momentum grows, survivors are encouraged to take action. Kenneth Weistche’s legacy continues to guide this movement for justice, with Roy noting that his brother’s last words to him were to apply for Category 2 compensation.

As more families join this urgent quest for recognition and reparations, the path towards healing remains fraught with challenges, yet filled with a steadfast hope for justice and acknowledgment of their pain.