(March 26, 2026 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief strongly condemns the coordinated and long-lasting campaign of RCMP surveillance, harassment and intimidation of First Nations individuals and organizations in the 1970s, calling the actions a serious violation of rights and a continuation of colonial practices. The National Chief is calling for an immediate inquiry into the matter and an apology from the Prime Minister and the Minister of Public Safety in addition to the apology issued by the RCMP Commissioner.
“We are not enemies of the state. We are First Nations and the first partners in this land,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “It is shocking and unaccepta koble that Canada would target, harass and spy on our people who were standing up for their rights and protecting their lands. I lift up our leaders who stood tall in the face of this harassment and surveillance. This is another chapter in Canada’s colonial history of oppressing and dividing First Nations instead of working with us to build a stronger country.”
The National Chief expressed concerns about the potential for similar activities given the federal government’s push on major development projects under Bill C-5, which could have significant impacts on First Nations lands, rights, and jurisdiction.
“This is not only about the past. It’s an important warning for today. As Canada pushes forward with major projects, it must not return to a time where First Nations are subject to infiltration, intimidation and surveillance, where principled opposition to development is labeled as criminal, extremist, or the result of foreign interference. First Nations must be fully and openly engaged in any proposed developments from the very outset, guided by respect for rights, title, jurisdiction and free, prior and informed consent,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
The AFN is demanding full transparency and accountability from the federal government.
“Truth is essential for reconciliation. I am calling on the government to make all the information on this matter public. This happened to my predecessors, and I am concerned that it could be happening to me and other First Nations leaders. I will be contacting the Public Safety Minister immediately to find out what steps Canada is taking in light of these revelations. While the apology by the RCMP Commissioner is important and necessary, I am calling for a public apology from the Prime Minister and the Minister of Public Safety for this disgraceful conduct. We want a full investigation into this RCMP program as part of our call for a broader national inquiry into systemic racism in policing. We must learn from the past to ensure this never happens again,” concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
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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.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)