The Assembly of First Nations and RCMP have signed a relationship-building protocol designed to address discrimination and racism within the force.
The agreement, signed Tuesday, July 12, further aims to enhance respect for the rights of First Nations people and ensure public safety without discrimination.
“Today’s signing represents an important commitment to improve relations and advance reconciliation between First Nations and the RCMP,” Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde said in a news release.
First Nations and the RCMP jointly developed the agreement to promote a stronger relationship and provide ways for interested First Nations to work with the Mounties.
The agreement commits the assembly and RCMP to support action to address the safety and security of indigenous women and girls across Canada.
The agreement also includes plans to develop appropriate recruiting strategies for First Nations individuals interested in joining the RCMP, and First Nations involvement in the continued development of cultural awareness and anti-discrimination training to members of the force.
The signing came just over six months after RCMP Commissioner Bob Paulson publicly admitted there are “racists” within the national police force, CBC.ca reported.
“I couldn’t deny it existed, but I can tell you unequivocally that while it may exist, there is no room, there is no place for it to remain,” Paulson told First Nations chiefs Tuesday, as reported by the website.
Paulson acknowledged the agreement, which is not legally binding, “is simply words on paper, and words alone will not improve things.
“I’m here today to pledge we will put actions to these words so we can continue the healing, continue the building and improve these vital relationships in every way possible,” he said, as quoted by the Canadian Press.
The agreement remains in effect for three years – until July 12, 2019 – unless either the assembly or the RCMP evoke their right to terminate their involvement.
A full copy of the agreement can be viewed on the assembly’s website at www.afn.ca. Click on the news release dated “16/7/13.” At the end of the release, click on the “AFN and the RCMP” link to view the agreement.
