Class-action lawsuit accusing abuse of Indigenous children in school in northern Alberta is certified by court
ilson certified the class-action lawsuit, allowing it to proceed against three proposed defendants: the federal government, the Diocese of Saint-Paul, and the Lakeland Roman Catholic Separate School Division. However, the application to include the Alberta government was dismissed by Neilson, indicating that the alleged breaches of duty may apply to the school district, but not the province.
The certified action acknowledges the survivor class as Indigenous individuals who attended École Notre Dame from 1966 to 1974. Legal representation for the class, including counsel Leighton Grey from Grey Wowk Spencer LLP, expressed mixed feelings about the ruling. Grey emphasized the urgency to move the case forward, estimating that there could be 350 to 500 eligible class members, predominantly from Kehewin Cree Nation, but potentially extending to others as well.
Given the historical context of the late 1960s and early 1970s, Grey highlighted the passing of many individuals and the need for a prompt resolution, especially with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The class action lawsuit details a pattern of degradation aimed at the school’s Indigenous community, citing instances of physical abuse such as public whippings and cultural shaming through forced haircuts. It is crucial to note that these allegations have yet to be proven in court.
Moving forward, the next steps involve filing a certification order and outlining a plan for the lawsuit’s progression. Grey expressed intentions to engage in settlement negotiations with the federal government, citing similar instances where Canada settled claims following subsequent filings. The plaintiffs cautiously maintain optimism, tempered with impatience as they seek resolution and closure.
This development marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for Indigenous children who suffered abuse at École Notre Dame. As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on acknowledging past wrongs, seeking redress for survivors, and fostering accountability among the responsible parties. The determination to address historical injustices and provide restitution for the impacted individuals underscores the importance of pursuing legal recourse in cases of systemic abuse and mistreatment.
