Assembly of First Nations: Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Calls for a National Inquiry into Systemic Racism in Policing

Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Calls for a National Inquiry into Systemic Racism in Policing

(December 4, 2024 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) issued the following statement calling on the Government of Canada to launch a National Inquiry into systemic racism in policing.

“Systemic racism in policing continues to result in the loss of First Nations lives, deeply affecting our families and communities and further eroding trust,” stated AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “An inquiry led by First Nations, grounded in our cultural practices and a trauma-informed approach, is essential to develop effective solutions that protect the rights and safety of our people.”

The emergency resolution passed on Tuesday by First Nations-in-Assembly calls for a National Inquiry into systemic racism in policing, to be led by First Nations Commissioners, with a mandate to investigate police-related deaths, serious incidents, and systemic racism in law enforcement, and to make culturally informed recommendations that address root causes and drive reform. Necessary and overdue reforms include mandatory de-escalation training, implementation of national Crisis Intervention Teams for crisis response, and policies such as banning choke holds and requiring a "use of force continuum."

“We need actions that lead to substantial changes, not empty promises,” emphasized AFN Regional Chief Ghislain Picard. “The inquiry should bring concrete reforms like reducing the militarization of police forces, enhancing culturally relevant training, and the development of policies based on reliable data to effectively address racism. First Nations leadership is crucial to ensure these reforms effectively meet the needs of our people."

"Accountability is critical to addressing the harm caused by systemic racism in policing," added AFN Regional Chief Terry Teegee. "We need oversight, national standards, and crisis intervention measures to protect our communities and prevent further tragedies. First Nations must lead this work to ensure it reflects our needs and actionable results."

“Our families deserve justice. It is critical that we work together to build a future where First Nations people are safe and respected, ” concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We urge the Government of Canada to establish this inquiry immediately and commit to implementing its findings in partnership with First Nations.”

―30―

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern. 

Contact Information:

Jon Adam Chen
Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
jchen@afn.ca
(343)-573-2229 (mobile)

Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)
jamiem@afn.ca

• press-release