Welcome. This virtual exhibition, curated by Gregory Scofield for the Legacy of Hope Foundation, is the online counterpart to a touring exhibition that aims to give voice to the experience of the many Métis children who were forced to attend Indian Residential Schools.
Warning: This website contains subject matter that reflects the lived experience of Survivors of Residential Schools. It may be disturbing to some visitors. For more information on this exhibition and the history and legacy of the residential school system, please visit legacyofhope.ca
Fur trade companies based in England and Lower Canada (Quebec) begin trading for furs with First Nations peoples. In 1670, the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) was created by royal charter and by the mid-1700s, a series of French owned companies were amalgamated by Scottish merchants as the North West Company.
Established in 2000, the Legacy of Hope Foundation (LHF) has become an authority on the subject of the Residential School System in Canada. The LHF mandate, to educate, raise awareness and understanding of the legacy of residential schools has driven the development of a variety of quality resources including a curriculum guide for teachers and educators. In addition, LHF has compiled a comprehensive list of resources produced by other organizations on the subject of the Residential School System.
With funding from the Museums Assistance Program, Canadian Heritage, this project documents and gives voice to the experiences of the many Métis children who were forced to attend Indian Residential Schools. Guided by a small, expert Métis advisory group, the Legacy of Hope Foundation created this exhibit and associated resources to shed light on the history and legacy of the Métis residential school experience.
Curated by Métis poet Gregory Scofield, and guided by advisory group members Christi Belcourt, Maria Campbell, Guy Freedman, and Brenda MacDougall, the exhibit explores Métis identity, Métis experience of residential school and cultural reclamation and healing.