Recent Shootings by Police

Aboriginal people in Canada have higher suicide rates, higher death rates while in custody and much higher death rates due to police shootings. On January 31, we learned about another in a long series of deaths that have resulted by police shootings: this one took place in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This was the second death of a Manitoban aboriginal within a month. What goes wrong in these situations?

In 1988, J. J. Harper’s death at the hands of police lead to the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry. This Inquiry produced many recommendations for the improvement of police relations. Aboriginal leaders have said that not enough of the recommendations have been adopted. This recent death of Matthew Dumas will be subject to an independent inquest by a Crown attorney from outside the Province. As well, there will be an internal investigation.

What has taken place in Manitoba is not uncommon to the rest of Canada. Police agencies across the country need to take note. Lessons must be learned from these recent shootings in Manitoba. A thorough review needs to be made of the recommendations from past inquiries. Is there a problem with the attitudes of police officers toward aboriginal people? Why are aboriginal people treated differently from others? What training are provided police officers relating to race relations? How much racial profiling is taking place? What are the consequences of racial profiling?

Policing is a profession. To be viewed as true professionals some police tactics need to change. The public demands the best performance by police officers. More guidance is needed; more discipline must be provided. The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, as a group, needs to assess what has gone wrong and determine what their ultimate responsibility is in this regard.