Canada marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with solemn ceremonies and renewed commitments to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) 94 Calls to Action. Residential schools caused documented harm. But the historical record is more complex: compulsory schooling was part of Canada’s broader movement toward universal education, and many former students described their residential school experiences positively and credited their education with improving their lives. Recognizing those experiences requires us to examine the full historical record and apply consistent standards of evidence.
BRULOTTE: Truth before reconciliation — beyond the headlines of residential schools
