First Nations leaders demand national inquiry into ‘epidemic’ of deaths by police

Edith Wells received a life-changing call on September 17, 2024, at 9:34 am. It was the call that no parent ever wants to receive – the call informing her that her son, 42-year-old Jon Wells, was never coming home.

“It’s only been two months since the passing of my son,” Wells shared during a press conference organized by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) in Ottawa. “And justice needs to be done.”

Wells, along with another mother, joined First Nations leaders to demand a national inquiry into systemic racism in policing, highlighting the “inter-related epidemic” of violence and death. The recent deaths of 10 First Nations people following interactions with police from August to November 2024 prompted the urgent call for action.

Jon Wells, a member of the Blood Tribe in Alberta, tragically died following an interaction with municipal police in Calgary. Described as a loving and compassionate person, his untimely death has left a void in his community and family.

The AFN resolution called for a comprehensive inquiry to investigate police-related deaths and serious incidents, with the goal of eradicating discrimination and racism in policing. The resolution pointed out that 25 First Nations people had died after interactions with police between 2017 and 2020, underscoring the pressing need for systemic change.

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak emphasized the importance of bipartisan support for the national inquiry, especially with a federal election on the horizon in 2025. The recent Supreme Court decision criticizing underfunding of a First Nation’s police service in Quebec further underscored the need for improved services and resources in Indigenous communities.

The assembly’s focus on child welfare was also a key agenda item, with delegates deliberating on the future of the child welfare system. A proposed $47.8-billion deal to reform the First Nations child and family services program faced opposition in October, leading to calls for renegotiation.

Despite differing opinions among leaders, the assembly voted to continue with the renegotiation process, emphasizing the need for accountability and an end to discrimination in child welfare services. National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak urged Canada to return to the negotiating table with a renewed mandate, signaling a commitment to addressing longstanding issues within the child welfare system.

As First Nations communities continue to advocate for justice, accountability, and equality, the call for systemic change in policing and child welfare remains at the forefront of the Indigenous rights movement.