WENDAKE,
QC, May 24, 2024 /CNW/ - The Assembly of First
Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) strongly condemns the recent
announcement by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to include
a "ribbon skirt" in its official uniform as part of its
reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.
RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme
announced this initiative via social media, stating that the
"ribbon skirt," along with the eagle feather and Métis sash,
reflects the values of reconciliation and respect for cultural
diversity. However, this initiative has sparked a wave of negative
reactions among Indigenous peoples and on social media, who find it
deeply offensive and inappropriate.
A blatant disrespect
The AFNQL considers this decision not only an insult to the
culture and history of Indigenous peoples but also a misguided and
superficial attempt to address the historical and contemporary
injustices perpetrated by the RCMP. "The ribbon skirt, a symbol of
strength, pride, and spirituality for Anishinaabeg women, cannot be
reduced to a mere accessory for the uniform of a police force that
has historically oppressed Indigenous communities," stated AFNQL
Chief Ghislain Picard.
Ignoring the real issues
This action by the RCMP diverts attention from the real issues
that persist, including the RCMP's role in historical violence
against First Nations and its involvement in colonization policies,
such as the Indian residential school system. "Instead of
incorporating cultural elements into their uniform, the RCMP should
focus its efforts on concrete actions to repair the harm caused,
such as implementing the Calls to Action of the Truth and
Reconciliation Commission and the recommendations of the National
Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls,"
added Chief Picard.
Consultation and respect:
necessary actions
The AFNQL calls for genuine consultation with First Nations
before making symbolic decisions that directly impact their
cultural heritage. "Reconciliation actions must be guided by
respect and recognition of the needs and wishes of Indigenous
peoples, not by symbolic gestures devoid of depth and
understanding. This RCMP initiative is an unacceptable cultural
appropriation that diverts attention from the real issues facing
our communities. Reconciliation cannot be achieved through empty
symbolic gestures but through concrete actions and genuine respect
for our cultures and history," emphasized Chief Picard.
The AFNQL urges the RCMP to reconsider this decision and adopt
authentic and meaningful measures to address historical and
contemporary injustices. True reconciliation requires more than
superficial adjustments to uniforms; it demands a sincere
commitment to justice, reparation, and respect for Indigenous
cultures.
About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the regional
political organization that brings together the 43 Chiefs of the
First Nations in Quebec and
Labrador. To find out more, visit
the AFNQL website at https://apnql.com/en/.
SOURCE Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador