Settlement reached between Indigenous man, RPS
- NC Raine | August 14, 2018
Nearly four years after an incident involving two Regina police officers, Simon Ash-Moccasin and the Regina Police Service (RPS) have reached “a mutually agreeable resolution”. The Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC) announced on July 27 they had mediated a settlement between the two parties in regards to Ash-Moccasin’s complaint of discrimination.
On December 10, 2014, two officers used force to detain Ash-Moccasin while responding to a call, despite Ash-Moccasin not matching the suspect's description. After receiving injuries to his face and shoulders, Ash-Moccasin went on to file a public complaint of discrimination based on ancestry and race.
Ash-Moccasin, a school teacher and father of four, said he’s relieved the mediation has concluded, and hopes his story signals continued positive change.
“I feel that because of this, I’ve held them accountable. I hope this serves for the better and for the good of what happened,” said Ash-Moccasin.
The RPS issued a formal apology to Ash-Moccasin. In a joint statement by Ash-Moccasin and the police service, officers will now receive cultural competency training, focusing on Indigenous history, the impact of residential schools, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
“When something like this happens, it’s an injustice to both my well-being and to my people,” said Ash-Moccasin. “If more people (speak out against injustices) then they’ll be forced to make change in society, to be more inclusive. I didn’t expect any money out of it, I wanted to change everything for the better.”
Ash-Moccasin said he hopes announcement of a monetary settlement does not negate everything he’s fought for. He said he’s since built a relationship with the RPS Chief Evan Bray, and wishes to continue in this progress.
“This all helped me to see what I’m capable of. Going the distance. I think this is just the beginning because when you get a sweet victory like that, and when you get those who are supposed to protect you to listen, it propels you to do more,” said Ash-Moccasin.
In a statement, the SHRC said that the mediated settlement ensures that the RPS will continue to train and educate its personnel in improve inter-cultural competency and prevent discrimination and bias in policing.
“Indigenous people in Saskatchewan are subject to racism in public services, including policing. Police serves throughout the province need to take steps to counteract bias and discrimination and improve their relationships with Indigenous people,” said SHRC Chief Commissioner David Arnot.
Ash-Moccasin says that going forward he will continue to advocate for victims of injustice, including giving talks on the Sixties Scoop and Indigenization.