Trigger warning: This article discusses experiences at residential schools that may be upsetting for some readers.
When Art Thompson entered the Alberni Indian Residential School (AIRS) at just five years old, he lost more than just his childhood; he lost his name and identity, assigned only a number: 511. His journey through AIRS from ages five to 13 was marked by severe trauma, including physical and emotional abuse, malnourishment, and a forced rejection of his culture.
Decades later, his daughter, Evelyn Thompson-George, is sharing his story in her memoir, The Defiant 511 of the Alberni Indian Residential School. At the book launch in March 2023, she revealed her motivation: many, even those related to survivors, still don’t understand the depth of these experiences.
Art, a member of the Ditidaht First Nation, faced immense pain during his time at the school and struggled with the memories throughout his life. After leaving, he found some solace in a recovery center for substance abuse. “It was here he began confronting his past,” Thompson-George said.
In 1995, Thompson and 17 other former students took legal action against a staff member for the abuse they endured. Their courage led to the offender being sentenced to over a decade in prison. “My father’s victim impact statement brought to light the horrors he experienced,” Thompson-George noted.
Art Thompson passed away in 2003, but his wish for his family was clear: keep telling his story. Inspired by recent discoveries at former residential school sites across Canada, Thompson-George finally wrote his memoir, aiming to shed light on the intergenerational trauma that has impacted Indigenous families.
She explained, “The ways we raise our children and grandchildren are often shaped by the trauma experienced by our ancestors.” Though the process of compiling her father’s story was emotionally taxing, it was important to her. “At times, it felt raw and heavy. It’s hard to play with my kids knowing what my father went through,” she admitted.
Thompson-George’s memoir not only recounts her father’s life but also interweaves her own experiences. With guidance from her aunt, Dr. Charlotte Coté, she included her perspective to create a more comprehensive narrative.
Despite the difficulties associated with the book’s themes, Thompson-George emphasized its necessity. “I hope this book finds its way into high schools and universities. Our stories must be told, and truth needs to be acknowledged.”
Art Thompson was also a talented artist, creating medals for the 1994 Commonwealth Games. “For him, art was healing— a way to reconnect with his culture while advocating for other survivors,” Thompson-George shared. She recognizes the challenge some may face in confronting the truths of residential schools. “It’s okay if the truth is hard to accept,” she said, acknowledging the struggles survivors have in voicing their pain.
Ken Watts, the Elected Chief Councillor for Tseshaht First Nation, highlighted the importance of sharing these stories. “Canadians need to understand what happened. It’s vital for keeping this history alive.”
Thompson-George’s memoir can be found at local Port Alberni stores or through reputable online platforms, including Mobius Books and Friesen Press.
For anyone seeking support, the Indian Residential School Survivors Society offers a 24-hour crisis line at 1-800-721-0066 or 1-866-925-4419.
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