OTTAWA - The Green Party of Canada expresses deep concern over the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Hoss Lightning from Samson Cree Nation by the RCMP. The tragic loss of this young life has sent shockwaves through his community and beyond, highlighting the urgent need for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Leader Elizabeth May stated, “The high number of deaths in shootings involving Indigenous people by the RCMP is alarming and underscores the deep-seated systemic racism within our policing institutions. The findings of the Mass Casualty Commission on the Nova Scotia shootings already pointed to critical flaws in RCMP operations, and this tragedy only reinforces the need for significant reforms.”
The Green Party of Canada calls for a full investigation by the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) and the RCMP into this incident, with active involvement from Indigenous Elders and community leaders. This investigation must address the broader context of how Indigenous communities are policed, ensuring accountability and justice for Hoss Lightning and his family.
Indigenous people have been victims of violence on their own Territories for generations. It must stop,” said Deputy Leader Rainbow Eyes. The entire RCMP faction must be held accountable for this deep systematic flaw for Hoss Lightning, his family & entire Enoch Nation. Our hearts & prayers go out to them. People of all backgrounds know the history of police brutality towards their own people. This is a core fault in the colonial system of domination that is now more alarmingly coming into light.”
“Indigenous peoples have long suffered under a system that was supposed to protect them but has too often failed to do so. We must stand together to demand better outcomes, genuine protection, and respect for the lives of all Canadians, especially those in vulnerable communities,” added Elizabeth May.
The Green Party remains committed to addressing systemic racism within the RCMP and advocating for meaningful change that ensures the safety and dignity of Indigenous peoples across Canada.
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For more information or to arrange an interview :
Fabrice Lachance Nové
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