A chilling report released by the U.S. Department of the Interior has unveiled the horrifying reality of Native American boarding schools, revealing that almost 1,000 children died while attending these institutions between 1819 and 1969.

The investigation, commissioned by Secretary Deb Haaland, a member of the Laguna Pueblo tribe, aimed to shed light on the dark legacy of these schools, which were established with the explicit purpose of forcibly assimilating Native children into white society. The report, spanning over a century, represents the first comprehensive effort to document these tragic losses.

The findings, however, are only the tip of the iceberg. The department acknowledges that the actual number of deaths is likely significantly higher due to the incomplete and often inaccurate records kept by the schools. Many graves are unmarked, and the locations of others remain unknown.

The report details a harrowing history of abuse, neglect, and systematic mistreatment of Native children. It recounts stories of starvation, disease, and physical and emotional trauma inflicted upon these vulnerable individuals. Children were stripped of their language, culture, and traditions, subjected to harsh discipline, and often separated from their families for extended periods.

The impact of these schools continues to resonate today. Survivors and their families grapple with the intergenerational trauma inflicted by the boarding school system, which has left lasting scars on Native communities. The report acknowledges the devastating psychological, emotional, and physical harm inflicted on these children and calls for a path towards healing and justice.

“This report is not about blaming anyone. It’s about understanding the truth of what happened,” said Secretary Haaland. “It’s about acknowledging the pain and suffering that Native children and families endured.”

The Department of the Interior has outlined a series of recommendations to address the legacy of the boarding schools, including:

Establishing a national commission to investigate the history and impact of the schools.

Creating a database to document the names and locations of known graves.

Providing resources for survivors and their families to access mental health services and support.

Working with Native communities to develop strategies for healing and reconciliation.

This report serves as a crucial step towards acknowledging the devastating history of Native American boarding schools and working towards a future where such atrocities are never repeated. It is a reminder that the truth, no matter how painful, must be confronted, and that the pursuit of justice and healing for Native communities must continue.