Demolish old Woodlands building
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Updated: July 08, 2009 3:06 PM
I was disturbed to learn the news that the City of New Westminster was entertaining plans to restore the Woodlands Centre Block for retail and residential use.
The Woodlands site once housed developmentally disabled people. It was at this location that mentally and physically disabled persons were physically, emotionally and sexually assaulted on an ongoing basis. There have been survivor reports describing the ongoing abuse at this establishment that have included occurrences of residents being “beaten and kicked, bullied and belittled, shackled and leashed, forced to take very cold showers and skin-burning hot baths, and sexually assaulted, resulting in injuries and pregnancies” (Vancouver Sun, July 27, 2007).
I know a number of Woodlands survivors personally.
My brother has a developmental disability. I find it horrifying that people like him were forced to endure such circumstances in this country. What I have heard of Woodlands equates to crimes against humanity. I find it appalling that this site may be now “restored” as a historic site.
Many voices would oppose a decision to restore a residential school or turn a site like Auschwitz or Abu Ghraib into a shopping plaza. I offer my voice as opposition to those who would suggest restoring Woodlands is any different.
Please allow the group of Canadians who were abused at Woodlands the dignity of observing as the site is demolished.
This is a necessary step in the healing process and a true reflection of what Canada stands for.
Veronica Fox
Port Coquitlam
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