November 17, 1966

An inquest begins into Chanie’s death. This is the first inquest into the treatment of Indigenous children in Canadian residential schools and sparks national attention. The jury report recognized that, “The Indian education system causes tremendous emotional & adjustment problems for these children.” They recommended, “A study be made of the present Indian education & philosophy. Is it right?”

The case persuades Indian Affairs to issue much clearer guidelines to every institution, only in Ontario, on how to deal with runaways. They were to inform police, interview friends, and organize a prompt search. If six hours passes with no sign of the student, their family were to be notified.