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[from "Chris" via sovernet-l@lists.speakeasy.org; Sun, 27 Feb 2000 10:52:07]
Saskatchewan natives demand public inquiry
CBC WebPosted Sun Feb 27 12:21:39 2000
PRINCE ALBERT - More native people in Saskatchewan are
coming forward with stories of police brutality. Several
police forces have been rocked by allegations of racism
since an investigation was launched into the freezing
deaths of two native men in Saskatoon.
Vigils were held in two cities Saturday night, renewing
calls for a public inquiry into how the justice system
treats native people. About 400 people attended a vigil in
Saskatoon. They want a probe into all aspects of the
criminal justice system. Native leaders say it's the only
way to clear the air.
Perry Bellegarde is chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan
Indian Nations. He led the call for a wider-ranging inquiry.
"We have to have that because no police force can operate
with that veil or that cloud over it. Nobody can operate
like that. And everybody has to feel secure that something
will be done," he said.
As Bellegarde spoke, a similar event was taking 150
kilometres north in Prince Albert. Several native people
came forward with stories of police brutality.
Ira Ahenakew says he's been beaten up by the police. "There
are only certain policemen that are doing wrong, but there
is a lot of good ones. But a person nowadays doesn't feel
safe getting into a police car by himself, or with a
witness, or just walking around."
Many speakers said they haven't told their stories before,
because they didn't think police would investigate. And they
thought others wouldn't believe them. But now that people
are listening, they say they'll keep talking until they get
some results.
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