By Canadian Press

Indigenous leaders call for systemic review of RCMP practices

Jul 23, 2020 | 1:21 PM

OTTAWA — First Nations and Inuit leaders are urging Ottawa to launch an independent, civilian review of RCMP practices to start addressing the number of violent incidents between Mounties and Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

Indigenous chiefs, leaders, and other experts are sharing their views today with a Commons committee looking at systemic racism in policing in Canada.

They say Canada’s national police force has a shattered relationship with Indigenous Peoples and must re-examine how it treats individuals, especially those who are homeless or dealing with addiction issues.

Regional Chief Terry Teegee of the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations says there is an urgent need for less punitive and more restorative options for policing.

Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami president Natan Obed called for zero-tolerance policies on use of force as well as greater use of body cameras.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

Terry McCaffrey of the Indigenous Police Chiefs of Ontario says culturally responsive policing practised by First Nations police forces has been working well, despite chronic underfunding.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 23, 2020.

The Canadian Press