‘Time to hear our truths’

Kitigan Zibi day school survivor helps others remember, heal

Mary Jane Brascoupe and Elder Claudette Commanda both sat beside each other while attending Congo Bridge Day School in Kitigan Zibi for Grades 1 and 2 from 1961 to 1962. Stuart Benson photo

Elder Claudette Commanda remembers intensely the abuse and ridicule she suffered while attending Congo Bridge Indian Day School in Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg.

Commanda, an Algonquin from the First Nations reserve near Maniwaki, is a member of the McLean Day School Settlement Corporation, which will administer a $200-million legacy fund