Chanie Wenjack’s story is a defining moment in the history of Canada and its reckoning with the residential school system. Born on January 19, 1954, on Marten Falls First Nation (Ogoki Post), Chanie was taken from his family at age nine and sent to the Cecilia Jeffrey Residential School in Kenora, Ontario. In 1966, at just 12 years old, he ran away in hopes of returning home more than 600 kilometres away. On October 22, 1966, Chanie was found beside the railway tracks, where he had died from sta

New Heritage Minute: "Chanie Wenjack" explores the legacy of residential schools. | Historica Canada

Chanie Wenjack was 12 years old when he ran away from Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School. He died one week later on this day in 1966. Chanie would have been 65 this year. In his memory, watch this Heritage Minute, now available in his mother tongue of Anishinaabemowin. --- Chanie Wenjack avait 12 ans lorsqu’il s’est échappé du pensionnat indien Cecilia Jeffrey. Il est décédé une semaine plus tard, en ce jour en 1966. Il aurait eu 65 ans cette année. En honneur de Chanie, regardez cette #M

Chanie Wenjack's death sparked the first inquest into the treatment of Indigenous children in residential schools. While you reflect on this National Truth and Reconciliation Day, take a moment to learn his story. | Historica Canada