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A lawsuit in Nova Scotia has finally reached a settlement for abuse that happened at two Schools for the Deaf, Halifax and Amherst. The lawsuit first began in 2015. Former students said that from 1913 to 1995, they were forced to live far from their parents, kept isolated, and experienced physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Many people wondered why victims waited so long to speak out. Lawyers explained that many survivors feel shame and fear, which often stops them from telling others. But once a few former students came forward, others found the courage to share their stories too. The reports described extremely painful experiences. Some students said they were locked in small closets, hit or kicked, or abused in showers. Girls reported being touched by teachers, and boys said they were assaulted by houseparents. Some children were not allowed to use the bathroom at night and were punished if they wet the bed. Others described being forced to eat their own vomit. Students said they were pushed to “train” day after day to hear, speak, and read lips, while being forbidden to use sign language. The defendants argued they did not know about the abuse and claimed the events happened too long ago to be included. But the victims’ lawyers kept fighting. One lawyer said: “These individuals didn’t have a proper childhood. It’s a childhood lost. It’s a life lost.” The settlement cannot return what survivors lost, but it finally recognizes the harm they suffered. About 1,200 people may qualify for compensation. More than 100 victims have died since the lawsuit began. After over 10 years of waiting, the proposed settlement will provide up to $36 million for former students and legal costs. The province must also issue a public apology.