The Nishnawbe Aski Nation is calling for an investigation into systemic racism and the use of force against Indigenous People by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler is speaking out following the recent deaths and policy brutality at the hands of police since April.
Fiddler stresses “Canadians have been shocked to see First Nations leadership brutalized and bloodied by RCMP in recent weeks. We have seen the tapes and heard the excuses, but what we have not seen is a committed federal response to eradicate systemic racism and the misuse of force against Indigenous Peoples by the RCMP.”
He says he is writing to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urging him to immediately launch a comprehensive, independent, and transparent investigation.
Fiddler stresses the path forward may include dismantling the RCMP given that it is not enough to simply adopt new policies or have more cultural training for officers.
“Meaningful investment in mental health supports and crisis interventions that embody the mandate of public safety must be explored and implemented.” says Fiddler.
He adds “It is time for the Government of Canada to prioritize sustainable, respectful and long-term changes to a policing system that is steeped in colonial traditions and has completely failed Indigenous Peoples.”
NAN @gcfiddler is calling for an investigation into systemic racism – and the use of force against Indigenous Peoples – by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) following the recent deaths and police brutality at the hands of the police since April. https://t.co/FkcBAAiyRD pic.twitter.com/BCMbHt9Z8X
— NANComms (@NANComms) June 15, 2020
