The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde met with Manitoba’s Lieutenant Governor Janice Filmon on Tuesday to request an independent inquiry into the recent killings of Indigenous people in the province.
Bellegarde, along with other Indigenous leaders, has been calling for an independent investigation into the deaths of several Indigenous people in Manitoba, including the recent killing of 16-year-old Eishia Hudson by a Winnipeg police officer.
During the meeting, Bellegarde presented Filmon with a letter outlining the AFN’s request for an independent inquiry. He emphasized the need for a thorough and impartial investigation into the deaths of Indigenous people in Manitoba, stating that it is crucial for the healing and reconciliation of Indigenous communities.
In a statement released after the meeting, Bellegarde expressed his gratitude to Filmon for taking the time to meet with him and for her willingness to listen to the concerns of the AFN and Indigenous communities.
He also reiterated the AFN’s call for the federal government to launch a national inquiry into the systemic racism and discrimination faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada.
The AFN’s request for an independent inquiry has gained support from other Indigenous leaders and organizations, including the Southern Chiefs’ Organization and the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak.
In a joint statement, the two organizations called for a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of Indigenous people in Manitoba, stating that it is necessary to address the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by Indigenous communities.
The AFN and other Indigenous leaders have also called for the implementation of the recommendations put forth by the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which includes addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women and girls.
The meeting between Bellegarde and Filmon is a step towards addressing the urgent need for an independent inquiry into the killings of Indigenous people in Manitoba. The AFN and other Indigenous organizations will continue to push for justice and accountability for the lives lost and for the safety and well-being of Indigenous communities across Canada.
