The head of the RCMP, Commissioner Mike Duheme, has publicly expressed deep remorse for a widespread surveillance initiative that targeted hundreds of Indigenous individuals. This marks the first acknowledgment by Duheme of CBC Indigenous reports revealing RCMP surveillance operations dating back to the late 1960s against Indigenous leaders and groups.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Duheme acknowledged the ongoing concerns and impact of this history on Indigenous Peoples, families, and communities across Canada. He emphasized the significance of recognizing the past actions and their lasting effects today, stating, “We recognize the serious concerns that this history continues to raise for Indigenous Peoples, families and communities across Canada.”
Duheme further mentioned his intention, along with Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, to convene a meeting with Indigenous leaders and elders to initiate discussions on healing and fostering a stronger relationship. He highlighted the transformative evolution of the RCMP over the years, underscoring the need for continuous improvement and addressing systemic racism within the organization.
The call for accountability and reconciliation from Indigenous leaders and Anandasangaree followed a comprehensive CBC Indigenous investigation that exposed the RCMP Security Service’s covert surveillance, informant networks, and anti-subversion activities against First Nations, Inuit, and Métis rights movements. The RCMP Security Service, formerly Canada’s domestic intelligence agency until 1984, was succeeded by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).
Anandasangaree expressed his deep concern over the revealed surveillance program and pledged to collaborate with Indigenous leaders to ensure justice for those impacted by the RCMP’s actions. The minister emphasized the importance of providing closure to those affected and preventing similar incidents in the future.
The surveillance program, labeled the “Native extremism program” by the RCMP, initially targeted extremist groups but inadvertently ensnared legitimate Indigenous organizations involved in lawful advocacy. Newly declassified documents obtained by CBC Indigenous revealed the extensive infiltration and disruption tactics employed by the Mounties against Indigenous groups.
AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak condemned the surveillance program, calling it shocking and unacceptable. She demanded a public inquiry into systemic racism in policing, along with apologies from the public safety minister and prime minister for the government’s support of the program.
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Natan Obed echoed the need for accountability and reassurance from government officials, emphasizing the importance of transparency and addressing past wrongs to rebuild trust with Indigenous communities.
The RCMP’s surveillance program faced criticism for overreach and privacy violations, with calls for public hearings and full disclosure of remaining files related to the spying activities. The revelations have sparked concerns about the government’s handling of Indigenous rights issues and the need for comprehensive measures to prevent similar infringements in the future.