Media statement by AMC Grand Chief Derek Nepinak on Internal Air Canada Memo regarding cabin crew safety in downtown Winnipeg
WINNIPEG—Grand Chief Derek Nepinak of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is appalled at a recent Air Canada memo characterizing displaced Manitoba First Nation citizens as posing a security risk to Air Canada staff.
Stated Grand Chief Nepinak, “It is entirely inappropriate for one of Canada’s largest corporations to link the presence of First Nations citizens in Winnipeg’s downtown core with any increased security risk. To attribute any community of people as posing an increased risk of violence or criminal activity is racist. Further, such negative commentary regarding our displaced friends and families is irresponsible and displays ignorance of the matters at hand.”
In reality, displaced First Nations citizens have been actively lobbying to be moved from the downtown area because they find it too dangerous and are worried about the safety of their children and families.
Issues of security and violence in Winnipeg’s downtown core have been at the forefront of many discussions by local leaders and law enforcement long before the displacement. The AMC will be writing a letter to Air Canada requesting clarification and asking for the retraction of any inference or suggestion that displaced First Nations citizens are contributing to an increased security threat.
View Air Canada memo | 
