Secret Path

Secret Path is a ten-song digital album by Gord Downie with a graphic novel by illustrator Jeff Lemire that tells the story of Chanie “Charlie” Wenjack!

Chanie, a twelve-year-old boy, died in flight from the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School sixty years ago. Misnamed "Charlie" by his teachers, he died on October 22, 1966, walking the railroad tracks in a desperate attempt to return home—a home that was 400 miles away. Like so many children—more than anyone will be able to imagine—he tried to find his way back to his family.

Chanie’s story is Canada’s story. Secret Path acknowledges a dark part of history—the long-suppressed mistreatment of Indigenous children and families by the residential school system—with the hope of starting a road to reconciliation. It serves to educate all Canadians, urging the nation to play an active role in the preservation of Indigenous lives and culture.

A powerful and essential work for every home and library. Featuring the haunting prose of Gord Downie and the visceral art of Jeff Lemire, this is a profound tribute to the thousands like Chanie Wenjack.