A Regina man has reached a resolution with Francois Brien Enterprises Ltd after an incident that happened two years ago.

Canadian Tire has officially apologized to Kamao Cappo after an incident with an employee two years ago. Photo by Adam Hawboldt

On July 26, 2017, Kamao Cappo was shopping at Canadian Tire Associate store #629 in Regina to purchase a new chainsaw. While shopping he was approached by an employee and was asked to leave. When Cappo asked why was being asked to leave, things escalated, and the employee used physical force against Cappo.

After the incident, Cappo filed a human rights complaint with The Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC) against the store. The complaint was later resolved in mediation.

A press conference was held last week in Regina to announce the settlement. Cappo, a representative from Francois Brien Enterprises Ltd., and Chief Commissioner David Arnot of SHRC attended to give a statement.

"The Commission uses a restorative, face-to-face mediation model that invites party-driven resolution. It is a model that offers people the chance to talk, the chance to understand each other, and the chance to tailor resolutions to their own needs," said Arnot.

The Store formally apologized to Cappo and acknowledged any hurt the incident caused.

The mediated settlement agreement ensures that the store will develop training that is designed for their employees to appropriately serve customers of all backgrounds. There will be a focus on cultural competency training to strengthen relationships with First Nations customers. They hope that through this training they can better serve all customers.

Kamao Cappo says he appreciates the apology made on behalf of the Canadian Tire store and looks forward to working with management moving forward on anti-racism initiatives. Stock photo

The SHRC is in support of the store's commitment to their new training policy and to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.

"Consensus outcomes like this are a prime example of how to correct problems of the past while improving relationships for the future," said Arnot. "This is reconciliation in action. This is how we begin to understand each other and to grow – as a people and as a province."

In a joint statement, the store and Cappo said they came to a resolution they both agreed on and the owner of the store, Francois Brien, formally apologizes to Cappo.

Cappo is thankful to SHRC and his lawyer Larry Kowalchuk for their support. He also hopes to work with the store to combat racism.

"I look forward to working with the store in developing effective change to address racism towards Indigenous communities in Regina, and perhaps develop models for others in the retail industry,” said Cappo.

Cappo also expressed his gratitude towards Brien.

“I appreciate the response of Mr. Francois Brien and the good faith settlement we achieved. Most importantly, I accept his apology and say thank you,” Cappo said.