By David Opinko (Lethbridge News Now)

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Residential school survivors can legally reclaim their traditional names for free

Jun 2, 2021 | 9:01 PM

The Government of Alberta is making it easier for survivors of residential schools and their families to legally change their names to reflect their Indigenous roots.

Indigenous Relations Minister Rick Wilson says it is another important step towards reconciliation and healing.

“We have heard from Indigenous leaders and community members that removing barriers will ensure survivors of residential schools and their families are more easily able to reclaim Indigenous names. This will go a long way in retaining and protecting Indigenous culture for generations to come.”

This announcement comes on the heels of the news late last week that 215 unmarked child graves were discovered at the former residential school in Kamloops, B.C.

The province began waiving fees for a period of five years back in 2019 in response to Call to Action 17 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

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Premier Jason Kenney says the fee waiver is now being extended indefinitely in Alberta.

“When Indigenous children were torn from their families and communities and sent to residential schools, they were also stripped of their names – a vital link to their community and heritage.

“As we all continue to grieve with survivors and their families, we also are committed to action and providing Indigenous people in Alberta a seamless way to reclaim their names and their heritage.”

More than 150,000 Indigenous youths were forced into residential schools in the 19th and 20th Centuries, run by Canadian governments and religious authorities.

The Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement places the number of First Nation, Metis, and Inuit children who died while attending these schools at more than 4,100, although the actual number is likely much higher than that.

Out of the 139 residential schools in Canada, 26 were in Alberta.