We Were Children Poster

We Were Children 2012

★ 7.210 votes88 min📅 2012-03-03

Directed by Tim Wolochatiuk, *We Were Children (2012)* is a harrowing documentary that sheds light on Canada's devastating residential school system, a dark chapter in the nation's history.

Director: Tim Wolochatiuk

Cast

Lyna Hart
Self
Ross McMillan
Father Y
Glen Anaquod
Self
Alicia Hamelin
Lyna (4 Yrs Old)
Jade Hamelin
Lyna (10 Yrs Old)
Jennie Morin
Lyna (18 Yrs Old)
Rebecca Gibson
Rebecca Gibson
Sister Mary
Rene Batson
Glen (6-7 Yrs Old)
Brun Montour
Glen (12 Yrs Old)
Justin Ducharme
Glen (18 Yrs Old)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *We Were Children (2012)* about?

*We Were Children* is a documentary that documents the traumatic experiences of First Nations children forced into Canada's residential school system. The film follows survivors as they share their stories of separation, abuse, and cultural erasure in a system that operated from the 19th century until 1996.

Who directed *We Were Children*?

*We Were Children* was directed by Tim Wolochatiuk, whose work focuses on amplifying Indigenous voices and historical injustices.

Who stars in *We Were Children*?

The documentary features powerful testimonies from survivors and community members, including Lyna Hart, Ross McMillan, and Glen Anaquod.

Is *We Were Children (2012)* worth watching?

While emotionally challenging, *We Were Children* is a vital documentary that provides crucial historical insight. Its raw honesty and emotional depth make it a must-watch for those interested in Indigenous rights and reconciliation.

How long is *We Were Children*?

*We Were Children* has a runtime of 88 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About We Were Children (2012) — A Powerful Documentary on Canada's Residential Schools

Directed by Tim Wolochatiuk, *We Were Children (2012)* is a harrowing documentary that sheds light on Canada's devastating residential school system, a dark chapter in the nation's history. Through the lens of survivor testimonies, the film exposes the systemic brutality endured by over 100,000 First Nations children, who were forcibly separated from their families and subjected to cultural erasure and physical abuse. The documentary's haunting atmosphere stems from its unflinching portrayal of resilience amid overwhelming hardship, as it gives voice to those who survived a system designed to strip them of their identity. Featuring contributions from Lyna Hart, Ross McMillan, and Glen Anaquod, *We Were Children* is both a historical reckoning and a testament to the enduring strength of Indigenous communities.

Tim Wolochatiuk crafts a narrative that balances historical gravity with emotional depth, ensuring the film resonates as both an educational resource and a tribute to survivors. The documentary's themes of trauma, memory, and healing linger long after the credits roll, making it essential viewing for those seeking to understand the lasting impact of colonial policies. *We Were Children (2012)* is a poignant call to acknowledge the past while advocating for justice and reconciliation.