THUNDER BAY — The leader of Nishnawbe Aski Nation is demanding an investigation into systemic racism and the use of force against Indigenous peoples by the RCMP.
NAN Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler says it may even be necessary to dismantle the RCMP.
In a statement Monday, he said "Canadians have been shocked to see First Nations leadership brutalized and bloodied by the RCMP in recent weeks."
Fiddler said he's writing to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urging him to immediately launch a comprehensive, independent and transparent investigation into the actions of the national police force.
"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," he said.
Fiddler said Indigenous leadership from coast-to-coast have expressed outrage following the shootings deaths of Chantel Moore by Edmundston, New Brunswick police on June 4 and Rodney Levi by New Brunswick RCMP on June 12.
Quebec's independent police investigation agency is looking into both incidents.
But Fiddler said NAN stands with the families who have called for a more in-depth inquiry.
To achieve systemic change, he said, may require dismantling the RCMP "given that it is not enough to simply adopt new policies or have more cultural training for officers."
Fiddler said meaningful investment in mental health supports and crisis interventions that embody the mandate of public safety will also be required.
He said the policing system is "steeped in colonial traditions."
