ATHABASCA TRIBAL COUNCIL EXPRESSES OUTRAGE OVER ASIRT’S FINDINGS REGARDING RCMP ASSAULT ON CHIEF ALLAN ADAM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(December 20, 2024, Fort McMurray, Alberta, Treaty 8) – The Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) is deeply shocked and disheartened by the recent findings of the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT), which determined there was no evidence to support criminal charges against the RCMP in relation to the 2020 assault on Chief Allan Adam.

This decision reflects yet another glaring failure of accountability within Canada’s colonial policing system. Chief Allan Adam, a widely respected leader and tireless advocate for the recognition of First Nation rights, was subjected to violent treatment at the hands of RCMP officers. This assault, captured in widely shared footage, stands as a stark reminder of the systemic abuse and discrimination that First Nations individuals continue to endure.

“We stand with Chief Allan Adam and all other First Nations people who have endured violence, injustice, and systemic racism within Canada’s policing systems,” said Chief Vern Janvier, Chief of Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, on behalf of the ATC. “The ASIRT’s findings reinforce the harsh reality that Indigenous voices and lived experiences are too often dismissed or minimized by institutions that were never designed to serve or protect us.”

Chief Allan Adam has long been a champion for Indigenous rights, working tirelessly to bring attention to the systemic inequities that First Nations people face. His courage in advocating for justice, even in the face of personal adversity, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his people and his Nation.

The ATC calls for urgent and transformative reforms in the policing and justice systems to address the longstanding discrimination and violence against Indigenous communities. True reconciliation cannot occur without systemic change and accountability.

“The RCMP’s lack of consequences in this case sends a devastating message: that the safety and dignity of First Nations people are not valued in this country. We will not remain silent in the face of this injustice,” added Chief Neil Cheecham, Chief of Fort McMurray 468 First Nation.

The Athabasca Tribal Council remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for justice, equality, and meaningful systemic reform. We urge all Canadians to stand with First Nations communities in the fight against systemic racism and to demand better from their institutions.

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About ATC

The Athabasca Tribal Council serves and advocates for five First Nations in northeastern Alberta. ATC is dedicated to advancing the rights, well-being, and opportunities of its member Nations through partnerships, advocacy, and community-driven solutions. For information, visit atcfn.ca.

For more information:

Karla Buffalo, CEO, Athabasca Tribal Council

Telephone: 780-791-6538 | Email: karla.buffalo@atcfn.ca