We call on the federal government to move forward on their commitment to implement amendments to the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program that would commit sustainable and predictable funding for First Nations-led law enforcement.
First Nations and the Government of Alberta have long advocated for police services that reflect community values, cultures, and needs. To achieve this, it is essential that First Nations have clear jurisdiction and authority over their own policing frameworks, underpinned by equitable funding from both federal and provincial governments. Such funding must be sustainable and sufficient, ensuring that First Nations-led police services have the resources they need to deliver a high standard of community policing.
This year, Alberta has allocated over $22.5 million to support policing in First Nation communities, including $12.2 million for three self-administered First Nation police services. Additionally, the Indigenous and Municipal Police Transition Study Grant has been provided to several Indigenous communities to explore policing options that best meet their unique needs, including the establishment of their self-administered police services. Alberta is currently working with Siksika First Nation and Enoch First Nation to develop their own First Nations police services.
The recent deaths of First Nations individuals during interactions with police highlight the urgent need to address capacity gaps in policing and justice systems. Reforms must address specific needs in governance, recruitment, and culturally-informed training. The necessity for these changes has been emphasized in the Auditor General of Canada’s reports, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Final Report and its Calls for Justice, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, and other inquests and inquiries that underline the demand for Indigenous-led policing.
We call on all levels of government to commit to equitable funding and legislative support, ensuring First Nations have the jurisdiction and autonomy to oversee their own police services. Together, we are committed to working with leaders across Canada to establish Indigenous-led police services that promote equity, justice, and improved community safety.
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern. Follow AFN on X @AFN_Updates.