RCMP Apologizes for Decades of Indigenous Spying

0:00It's March 25th. I'm Cory with the story, and this is Toronto News Today, local news powered by AI. The RCMP Commissioner has expressed sincere regret for a spying program that targeted hundreds of indigenous people over decades. This follows a CBC Indigenous investigation into nearly 6,000 declassified documents, revealing surveillance on leaders and organizations, starting in the late 1960s. And are Mike Touham acknowledged the actions in a statement this week, noting their lasting harm to indigenous communities. The program, known internally as the Native Extremism effort, involved infiltration, informants, and disruption tactics back by the federal, government from 1968 to 1982. Indigenous leaders reacted with outrage, calling the spying, shocking, and a threat to democratic advocacy. Assembly of First Nations Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepenak demanded a public apology and inquiry, while any wit to period Kanatami President Natan Obed highlighted eroded trust in institutions.

1:04Public Safety Minister Gary Ananda Sangare voiced deep disturbance and pledged collaboration for redress and prevention. Dohem plans meetings with indigenous elders to foster healing and stronger ties, admitting more work is needed despite reforms since the RCMP. Police service dissolved in 1984. Recent cases, like surveillance on a First Nations Children's Advocate in 2013, underscore persistent issues. As calls grow for full file releases and hearings, the focus remains on accountability to repair relations and ensure history does not repeat.