Episode 332: In this episode of Dark Poutine, we delve into a troubling chapter of British Columbia’s history that reveals the deep-seated racism and fear that plagued our past. D’Arcy Island, a small and isolated landmass off the coast of Vancouver Island, became home to a leprosy colony from 1891 to 1924. But this wasn’t just any colony; it was a place where Chinese immigrants who had contracted the disease were forcibly sent to live out their days in harsh and inhumane conditions, far from society’s view.
Leprosy, now known as Hansen’s disease, has been misunderstood and deeply feared throughout history. The disease, although not highly contagious and treatable today, was seen as a mark of shame and led to the isolation of those afflicted. The establishment of the D’Arcy Island colony was rooted not only in fear of the disease but also in the racist attitudes of the time, which viewed Chinese immigrants as expendable and less deserving of care.
Sources:
W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations: History & Territory
The Creation of Indian Reserves and their Impact On The W̱SÁNEĆ Nation
British Columbia Indian Treaties In Historical Perspective
An introduction to First Nations’ history in the Gulf Islands
Tales from the Vault: The lepers of D’Arcy Island
The Dark Past Of D’Arcy Island • British Columbia Magazine
How a tiny island off Victoria became part of B.C.’s racist history – UBC News
‘Island of Death’: BC’s Forgotten Racist Leper Colony
Health campaigners call for an end to the use of the word leper
Chinese Canadian historic places receive provincial recognition
Chinese Canadian Historic Places | PDF
A Measure of Value: The Story of the D’Arcy Island Leper Colony By Chris Yorath | Google Books
City of Victoria Archives | International Leprosy Association – History of Leprosy
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