Statement from MTI Chiefs Following RCMP Shooting Incident

September 10, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from MTI Chiefs Following RCMP Shooting Incident

Mi'gmawe'l Tplu'taqnn Inc. (MTI) extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and community of Elsipogtog following the recent shooting of Iggy Dedam by the NB RCMP during what was intended to be a wellness check.

While there are further details need to be released, we know this is not the first time our communities have seen a wellness check result in death. We know there is an overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples as victims of police shootings. MTI would like to see the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) conduct a thorough, transparent investigation into this incident.

The provincial government hired a Commissioner of Systemic Racism to make recommendations to improve, among other areas, the justice system. After almost two years the provincial government has yet to respond to the report. The MTI Chiefs reiterate their call for an inquiry into systemic racism in the justice system.

MTI emphasizes the critical role of community safety programs like the Mi’gmaq Peacekeeping Incorporated or Indigiwatch. These Peacekeepers have been trained to provide support and mitigate conflicts that can lead to violence and / or death. Continued investment in and support for these programs are essential for creating safer and more resilient communities.

Media Inquiries:

Raven Boyer ravenboyer@migmawel.org