James Poker’s time in care was marked by contradictions. Despite receiving notes stating he was thriving in out-of-province placements, he was a chronic runaway, often returning after being missing for days. Disconnected from his culture, he struggled to form meaningful bonds with caregivers. The Poker family’s lawyer, Scott Lynch, criticized the misrepresentation of James’s situation, hindering his family’s understanding of his challenges.
The lack of communication between Ranch Ehrlo and the Poker family during James’s stay raised concerns. James’s father only learned of his permanent departure when he saw him back in Natuashish. James aged out of care at 16 and tragically passed away before his 18th birthday, becoming one of the subjects of the public inquiry into Innu child protection.
His early life immersed in Innu language and culture contrasted sharply with his later experiences. James struggled with mental health issues and was prescribed anti-psychotics without his family’s knowledge. The inquiry highlighted failures in aftercare, with James returning home without essential support, leading to tragic consequences.
Despite legislative efforts like Bill C-92 granting Indigenous communities child protection jurisdiction, challenges persist in reforming the system. Lynch emphasized the need for a more effective system to safeguard Innu children, as seen in James Poker’s unfortunate story.
