NationTalk: Winnipeg – When the Calls for Justice were released in the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples in June 2019, the Manitoba RCMP listened intently. It was understood that the Calls for Justice needed to result in action, and the Manitoba RCMP needed to find a way forward in incorporating those calls into the role of policing.

The first and most important step forward was to stop and hear what was being said by Indigenous communities and leaders, to really keep at the forefront the tenet “nothing about us without us.” After extensive collaboration and attention to the thousands of pages of testimony at the National Inquiry, the Manitoba RCMP was able to synthesize the 231 Calls for Justice to 10 core components where the Manitoba RCMP can bring about change:

• Investigations
• Prevention
• Education
• Indigenous Units & Policing
• Victim Services
• Recruiting & Retention
• Advisory Committee & Oversight
• Research & Reporting
• Communication
• Reconciliation & Partnerships

In order to address these 10 core components and create a tangible and meaningful action plan to address violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples, the Manitoba RCMP is working with Indigenous communities to form a Joint Action Circle (JAC). The JAC will collaborate to prioritize areas of concern and develop detailed, specific strategies and actions.

Sitting on the JAC will be representatives from various Indigenous government, organizations, communities, Manitoba RCMP units, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Survivors, and family members. Organizations that have already agreed to provide a representative include:

• Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
• Manitoba Métis Federation
• Manitoba Inuit Association
• Tunggasugit Inuit Resource Centre
• Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak
• Southern Chiefs’ Organization
• Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba
• Assembly of First Nations – Manitoba Region

“The RCMP and First Nations share a long, sometimes strained, relationship. The AMC is pleased that the RCMP is finally seeking meaningful involvement from AMC in restoring a more equitable, mutually respectful, and trusting relationship with First Nations in Manitoba. As the Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, I look forward to reestablishing an MOU with the RCMP, that, among other things, establish a First Nations-specific table led by the AMC to address the distinct issues experienced by our on-reserve leadership. Together, the AMC and RCMP will address current and emerging issues, share resources, and coordinate responses, ensuring the alignment of our goals and values for the benefit of both organizations and the First Nations we serve,” said Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick.

“The JAC will be Indigenous-led and Survivor-centric, and the RCMP is committed to listen,” said Assistant Commissioner Rob Hill, Commanding Officer of the Manitoba RCMP. “In the past, we came to the table with plans and strategies, but we now recognize the necessity of coming to the table with open minds and a willingness to hear what is being suggested. The JAC and the action plan that will result from it is the first wide reflection for the Manitoba RCMP on the Calls for Justice. It is a starting point to fuel conversation that will lead to concrete action. We are committed to change and to the continuation of our Reconciliation journey. At the core, this is about protecting people who need our help. We need to listen to the people and communities who are experiencing this violence in order to keep them and others safe from harm.”

The JAC plans to have its first meeting in February 2024.

Quotes:

“We welcome the opportunity to be a part of the Joint Action Circle. Violence against indigenous women and girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+, men and boys is a longstanding and deeply troubling issue that demands urgent attention and action.

Having the voices of Indigenous Elders, Knowledge keepers, Survivors and families will go a long way to building trust with law enforcement and understanding. Ensuring there is culturally sensitive, relevant, and inclusive solutions.

Working together I am confident that we can establish new pathways to enhanced training and awareness, improved reporting and response mechanisms and community led initiatives.”

– MKO Vice Chief David Monias

We are witnessing an unprecedented time in history, and I am humbled to see this collaboration between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) D Division and Indigenous Elders, leaders, families, and communities in Manitoba. D Division has acknowledged that there is a need for change and are addressing their commitment for Truth & Reconciliation. The Inuit are guided by IQ Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, “Traditional Knowledge”, which we have valued as a long time understanding of codes of behaviour based on time-honored values and practices and incorporating these IQ Principles into their initiatives is a positive step. On behalf of the Manitoba Inuit Association, I would like to personally thank D Division for the creation of the Joint Action Circle and acknowledging the need for Indigenous knowledge and wisdom in their practices.

– Nastania Mullin, Chief Executive Officer, Manitoba Inuit Association

“The National Government of the Red River Métis welcomes today’s announcement by the RCMP “D” Division. The outcomes of the Action Plan can help build a strong relationship between the RCMP and Red River Métis Citizens, particularly when they are facing challenging situations. Our involvement in the Joint Action Circle will ensure that our women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ voices are heard and that they receive culturally appropriate support and assistance when they need it most.”

– Justice Minister Julyda Lagimodiere, Manitoba Métis Federation

“The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is committed to ending gender-based violence, which disproportionately impacts First Nation citizens in Manitoba and across the entire country. As part of this commitment, SCO is participating in the RCMP’s Joint Action Circle. There is much need to support efforts the RCMP is making to implement the 231 Calls for Justice, which will help to end the violence against First Nation women, girls, two-spirit, and gender diverse people. I look forward to seeing the change that will result from the RCMP integrating the Calls for Justice into their protocols, procedures, practice, and daily work.”

– Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, Southern Chiefs Organization

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Contact information

Phone: 204-983-8497
Email: Media.Relations.RCMP.Manitoba@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Manitoba RCMP Media Relations Unit

Tara Seel, Media Relations Officer
Cpl. Julie Courchaine, Media Relations Officer
Sgt. Paul Manaigre, Media Relations Officer
Robert Cyrenne, Director Communications and Media Relations

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