Harold Dougall wants people to know his name, to know he is a survivor, and to know what happened behind the closed doors of the Huronia Regional Centre.
That is why he chose to share his story in his newly released book, Behind Closed Doors. Two years in the making, Harold’s story chronicles his life and memories of living at the Huronia Regional Centre (HRC), beginning when he was just 11 years old. He entered the institution in 1960, at a time when the surrounding community had little understanding of what truly went on inside its walls.
“People didn’t know what happened in there,” Harold says. “I want them to know and I want them to understand where I’m coming from with my story.”
The book traces Harold’s experiences at HRC and the lasting impact of institutionalization, while also highlighting the strength, determination, and perseverance that carried him forward. Behind Closed Doors also documents how Harold and other survivors helped launch the Huronia Regional Centre class action lawsuit – an important step toward accountability and recognition.
For Harold, telling his story has become a lifelong mission having shared his experiences through Speakers Bureau presentations at York University, speaking engagements in Winnipeg, appearances on local television, and in the documentary Unloved: Huronia’s Forgotten Children. He has spoken directly to Members of Provincial Parliament, advocating for accessibility and for the voices of people with disabilities to be heard.
Along the way, Harold has continued to grow, learn, and challenge himself. He taught himself how to write so he could advocate for himself and others in his community. He plans to run for Orillia City Council again in the next municipal election. He’s an advocate against drunk driving, a Special Olympian, and a Toastmaster – always pushing forward, always learning.
“I’ve learned to persevere,” Harold says. “I’m learning new things every day.”
Seeing his book for the first time was an emotional milestone.
But Harold sees Behind Closed Doors as just the beginning.
This is the start of many more projects. I want to get more books out there. I want to do book signings. People don't know what happened there and I want them to know.
- Harold Dougall
For Harold, the book is about more than his own survival. It is about giving voice to those who are no longer here and about educating the community, so these stories are never forgotten. Through Behind Closed Doors, they won’t be. Just ask Harold.
