‘Act of remembrance’: Residential school site in Manitoba receives new plaques commemorating historical significance

Three new plaques sharing the historical significance of the former Portage la Prairie Indian Residential School are seen in Portage la Prairie on Aug. 14, 2025. (Glenn Pismenny/CTV News Winnipeg)

The federal government and Long Plain First Nation recognized the historical significance of a former residential school in Portage la Prairie.

Saint Boniface-Saint Vital MP Ginette Lavack joined Long Plain leaders and residential school survivors at the Portage la Prairie Indian Residential School on Thursday. Three new plaques were unveiled by Parks Canada, sharing the historical significance of the building.

“We recognize this site as a place of national historic significance,” Lavack said. “This commemoration is one step in our collective responsibility to educate all Canadians about the Indian residential school system, its devastating consequences, and the importance of remembering this history so that it is never repeated.”

“Commemoration is often not a celebration. It’s an act of remembrance and an opportunity to reflect on the full scope of Canada’s history, including moments that are painful, complex or difficult to confront.”

The school was built in 1915. It was part of the residential school system which removed Indigenous children from their families and communities, denying them their traditions, language and culture.

The school closed in 1975, and is now home to the National Residential School Museum of Canada.

“Our museum is physically located in one of Canada’s last remaining residential school buildings. It stands as a testament to our past and bears witness to the history and legacy of the residential school system,” said Lorraine Daniels the museum’s executive director and a residential school survivor.

“It’s now a National Historic Site. It serves as a powerful, immersive memorial that honors those who endured the resident to school system, safeguarding their stories, supporting survivors and their communities, and educating visitors on the impacts of the residential schools.”