223. Cruelty | Charles Joseph

Feb 3, 2022

Charles Joseph, a Kwakwaka’wakw artist renowned for his masks and totem poles, discusses his profound journey through the pain of residential schools. He reflects on the cruelty faced as a child and the struggle for reconciliation. Through art, Charles finds healing, emphasizing the significance of cultural heritage and community ties. He shares the transformative power of personal storytelling and the enduring impact of trauma on identity. The conversation dives into the hopes for future generations and the importance of embracing one's roots.

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ANECDOTE

Confinement and Disorientation

Charles Joseph describes being locked in a dark closet for days as punishment.
The disorientation upon release led to further punishment for not understanding assigned chores.

ANECDOTE

Incinerator

At St. Mike's, deceased children were wrapped and incinerated in a large drum.
Charles Joseph and other children were forced to light the fire, and the smell permeated the entire area.

ANECDOTE

Anger and Blame

Charles Joseph left the residential school around age 13, filled with anger.
He blamed the world, particularly white people, for his experiences.

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