Impact of Residential Schools on Indigenous Identity
The novel portrays the deep psychological scars left by the residential school system on Indigenous children. The characters in the novel—Kenny, Lucy, Clara, Maisie, and Howie—each bear emotional scars from their experiences. Kenny has repeated attempts to escape the Mission School and the brutal punishments he endured. His memories of being beaten while wearing a dress and a sign that read, "I am a runaway" reflect the dehumanization inflicted upon him. The memories of Howie's suffering highlight the ruthless abuse the children faced. Moreover, Clara's reflections on her time spent with Mariah and the ceremonies they performed indicate a lifelong struggle to heal from the trauma of her past.
Maisie suffers from severe PTSD that manifests in nightmares coupled with her profound sense of worthlessness. Lucy's story emphasizes the internalized shame and identity confusion caused by the residential school system. Her character arc represents the struggle many survivors face in reconciling their Indigenous identity with the dominant culture. The schools attempted to strip them of their Indigenous identity as the characters' journeys highlight the impact of this cultural genocide. Their struggles to reclaim their sense of self underscore the long-term consequences of these institutions.
Systemic Racism and Marginalization
The novel highlights the systemic racism and marginalization faced by Indigenous people in Canada. From the legal system to social services, the characters encounter discrimination and neglect. They all suffering abuse and trauma at the hands of those who were supposed to care for them. Their experiences indicate the social and institutional barriers that indigenous communities face. The characters frequently encounter a justice system that fails them. Kenny's interaction with the lawyer about the lawsuit against the government illustrates the challenges in seeking justice for historical wrongs. The painful process of recounting abuse highlights the re-traumatization involved in legal battles for recognition and reparations. Howie's experience with the legal system and being imprisoned for attacking his abuser. This accentuates how the system criminalizes responses to trauma without addressing the root causes.
The Search for Identity and Belonging
The novel delves into the characters' attempts to navigate their identities in the aftermath of their forced assimilation. Each character’s journey indicates a struggle to reclaim their cultural identity. They try to find a place of belonging in a world that has systematically tried to erase their heritage. Kenny attempts to reconnect with his Uncle Clifford and his mother showing his desire to reclaim his family ties and cultural roots. These efforts are fraught with difficulty as he grapples with the disconnection caused by his time at the residential school. After his release from prison, Howie’s efforts to rebuild his life with the help of characters like Clara indicate his search for a place where he can be accepted. This theme is deeply connected to theories of identity formation in post-colonial contexts. Stuart Hall's concept of "cultural identity" as a continuous process of becoming rather than being is relevant in this story. The characters illustrate the fragmented identities that result from colonial trauma and the ongoing process of reconstructing their sense of self.
Resilience and the Power of Community
Despite the trauma inflicted by residential schools, the characters demonstrate remarkable endurance. The community's support and the reclamation of cultural practices are central to their resistance against the erasure of their identities. Kenny’s friendships, particularly with Howie, provide him with a sense of belonging and emotional support. Though he feels guilty for Howie's suffering, Kenny's memories of their bond sustain him. Lucy’s attempts to rebuild her life and find love after her traumatic experiences demonstrate her resilience. Her relationship with Clara and their shared experiences provide emotional support and a sense of solidarity. The bond between Clara, Mariah, and Kendra and their involvement in traditional healing practices underlines the significance of community and cultural practices. Academic literature on resilience in Indigenous communities often emphasizes the role of cultural practices and traditional knowledge.
