Issues: Justice and Policing
Background:
Aboriginal Women residing both on and off reserve are marginalized socially and economically as a result of colonial laws, policies, and legislation. This inequitable treatment has manifested itself in the overrepresentation of Aboriginal women in the criminal justice system as both victims and offenders.
Fast Facts:
- Approximately 50% of maximum-security populations within the federal women’s prison population are Aboriginal and spend more time in prison segregation units. Moreover, Aboriginal women are less likely to receive parole.
- Aboriginal women living both on and off reserve report that they are often reluctant to report violence to police because they fear that their complaints will not be taken seriously.
- There is currently a shortage of culturally relevant services available to the ever-growing off-reserve population that addresses the systemic needs of Aboriginal women.
Recommendations:
- That ALL levels of government in partnership with ALL Aboriginal organizations take the necessary steps to address the root causes leading to the over-representation of Aboriginal women as victims and offenders within the criminal justice system. This includes the immediate repeal of the Indian Act
- That Aboriginal organizations work in partnership with ALL levels of government, mainstream organizations, and each other to ensure that existing VICTIMS services are adaptable to the needs of Aboriginal victims of crime.
- That Aboriginal organizations work in partnership with all levels of government, mainstream organizations, and each other to ensure that existing services and structures are respectful of traditional approaches to justice.
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For further information, please contact:
Al Fleming
Director
Public Affairs
613-747-6022 (office)
613-867-8696 (mobile)
al@abo-peoples.org
