‘Indian Hospital’ settlement misses mark: prof
A professor argues the ‘Indian Hospital’ settlement doesn’t adequately address the systemic abuse experienced by patients.Summary
Following the opening of the claims process in a federal class-action settlement for abuse at Canadian “Indian Hospitals,” University of Winnipeg Professor Mary Jane McCallum argues the settlement is insufficient. Unlike the residential school settlement, it lacks a common experience payment for all who attended, failing to recognize the inherently abusive nature of these hospitals. McCallum’s research at the Brandon Sanatorium revealed assimilationist practices similar to residential schools. Doug Lennox, a lawyer representing claimants, disagrees, stating the settlement appropriately focuses on documented abuse, not mere attendance. The settlement, open until July 2028, offers payments from $10,000 to $200,000 based on abuse severity and includes a $150-million healing fund and a $235.5-million research and commemoration fund. Chief Cornell McClean of the Southern Chiefs Organization advocates for a call center to assist claimants and emphasizes that financial compensation alone does not equate to healing.
(Source：Brandonsun)