
← The Legacy of Abuse Podcast25 dec 2025 · 17 min
Bonus Episode Christmas 2025: 1989 and The Education Act
Join us for a special holiday episode as we rewind to 1980s Saskatchewan, when the hair was big, accountability was apparently optional, and one parent decided to challenge truancy laws because their child was attending an illegal school. Festive.
We unpack what the court actually said about compulsory attendance, because "we tried our best," personal beliefs, and creative loopholes don't override The Education Act. Attendance isn't a suggestion, and it doesn't become optional just because enforcement was inconsistent or oversight was asleep at the wheel.
We translate the legal jargon into plain English, explain why this decision matters for parents, schools, and ministries, and show how this case exposes the awkward gap between what education laws say on paper and what's been quietly tolerated in practice.
If you've ever wondered how courts handle truancy, parental responsibility, or what happens when someone decides the law doesn't apply to them, pour some eggnog and hit play.
https://siscc.ca/ is a survivor-led community for people who attended private, independent, or faith-based schools and may be looking for connection and peer support. If you've participated in survivor support groups or are looking to connect with others who understand, SISCC is a valuable place to start.
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