Former Inuit leaders say the RCMP’s 2024 expression of regret for its 1960s‑70s Indigenous surveillance program falls short.
The demand matters because it touches on accountability for government actions that violated the trust of Indigenous peoples and could shape future policing and surveillance policies across Canada.
The RCMP launched a covert surveillance operation that monitored Inuit, First Nations, and Métis leaders for more than a decade [1]. The effort targeted hundreds of Indigenous people [2] and was carried out throughout the 1960s‑1970s [3].
RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said, “I deeply regret the RCMP’s Indigenous spying program that spanned over a decade.” — the remark came a day after a CBC Indigenous investigation revealed the scope of the operation.
Assembly of First Nations President said, “Not a sufficient response.” Former Inuit leaders argue that an apology without accountability fails to address the breach of trust.
They are calling for a public inquiry and a class‑action lawsuit to seek compensation and systemic reform. The leaders say a formal investigation would uncover the full extent of the spying and identify any surviving victims.
The controversy revives debate over how Canadian security agencies have historically treated Indigenous communities and pressures the government to review current surveillance policies to ensure they respect Indigenous rights and constitutional protections.
“"Not a sufficient response"”
The push for an inquiry and lawsuit signals a broader reckoning with past abuses by state security forces. If the government proceeds, it could set legal precedents for redress and compel reforms that tighten oversight of intelligence activities involving Indigenous peoples.
