Mount Cashel Orphanage

Mount Cashel Orphanage, Newfoundland

Supreme Court (121628598)

St. Ninian's Cathedral, Antigonish (17302507911)

Mount Cashel Orphanage Monument, Newfoundland

Mount Cashel Orphanage was a notorious facility operated by the Christian Brothers in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Established in the late 19th century, it was intended as a home for orphaned and abandoned boys. However, the orphanage became infamous for the physical and sexual abuse that occurred there, spanning decades before its closure in the late 20th century.

History

The Mount Cashel Orphanage was founded in 1875, with the aim of providing care and education to orphaned boys in the region. Over the years, it expanded its facilities and the number of children it housed. The Christian Brothers, a Roman Catholic lay order dedicated to education and charitable work, operated the institution.

Abuse and Scandal

In the late 1980s, allegations of physical and sexual abuse at the orphanage surfaced, leading to public outrage and a legal investigation. The abuse, which had been occurring since the 1940s, was brought to light through the courageous testimonies of former residents. The scandal highlighted significant failures in the oversight of child welfare institutions and the protection of children in care.

Legal Proceedings and Aftermath

The revelations of abuse led to a commission of inquiry, known as the Hughes Inquiry, which investigated the extent of the abuse and the response of the authorities. The inquiry's findings, published in the early 1990s, criticized the government and the church for their failure to protect the children and for their attempts to cover up the abuse.

Following the scandal, the orphanage was closed, and the buildings were eventually demolished. The Christian Brothers issued formal apologies and agreed to compensation settlements with many of the victims. The Mount Cashel scandal had a profound impact on Canadian society, leading to increased scrutiny of child protection policies and practices across the country.

Legacy

The legacy of Mount Cashel Orphanage is a somber reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in the care of vulnerable children. It has prompted reforms in child welfare and protection laws in Canada and has raised awareness about the potential for abuse in similar institutions worldwide.

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