RCMP say maintaining the delicate balance between reconciliation and laying brutal beatings on First Nations people is one of the force’s greatest challenges.
“Do we want reconciliation? Yes. Do we want to continue to tackle First Nations and brutally beat them in front of their families? Also yes,” RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme told reporters.
“It’s really quite a pickle.”
Duheme said one way the force can improve relations with Indigenous communities is by rebranding some of its weapons and tactics.
For instance, choke-holds will now be called reconciliation hugs while assault rifles will now be known as reconciliation sticks.