N.S. RCMP apologizes for treatment of Black community

The Nova Scotia RCMP has formally apologized for how they treated the province’s Black community.

A 2019 study by Dr. Scot Wortley found Black people were six times more likely than white people to be street checked, which means they’re randomly stopped and asked for their information.

In September 2023, the RCMP said they would apologize.

Assistant Commissioner Dennis Daley, Commanding Officer of the Nova Scotia RCMP, spoke during a livestreamed event at the North Preston Community Centre that was viewed at community halls across the province on Saturday afternoon. Communities that hosted the livestream included Amherst, Digby, Gibson Woods, Greenville, Monastery, New Glasgow, Shelburne and Sydney.

Daley apologized to African Nova Scotians and all people of African descent, for the RCMP’s historic use of street checks and other harmful interactions.

He opened by saying, “This apology is long overdue. In my opinion there is no valid reason why an apology has not issued before. We have disrespected your community.”

Daley went on to say, “I am deeply sorry for the harm caused by our use of street checks and for interactions with the Nova Scotia RCMP that have had a negative impact on you and your community.”

“I’m sorry to you and your loved ones for how differently potential employers, your family, and your community might have seen you, and even how you might have seen yourself as a result of our actions, especially for young black males who have been most affected.”

“I want to acknowledge, and apologize for, the far-reaching impacts of street checks. During our community visits, you told us: ‘Our kids are scared’ and ‘Enough is enough. Treat us equally. Harm builds on itself – it starts young.’ I’m sorry for the fear and mistrust we’ve created.”

Assistant Commissioner Daley also released an action plan that outlines ways the Nova Scotia RCMP is working to rebuild the fractured relationship with the province’s Black community. According to a release, the commitments include: employee education around African Nova Scotian history and anti-Black racism; ongoing collaboration within Black communities across the province; increasing the number of, and retaining, African Nova Scotians and other racialized employees; supporting race-based data collection to enhance transparency and accountability; and reporting on progress in these areas.

Daley said, “I recognize that words are hollow without action. We needed time to speak with those affected, and to develop a real understanding of the full impact of street checks. Through these discussions, we’ve been able to come to you today with a plan, and a genuine commitment to change.”

In closing, Daley said, “There is plenty of healing and repair ahead of us. Our hope is that this Action Plan will lead us where we need to be.”

To inform the apology and the action plan, the assistant commissioner established a  steering committee of community members and RCMP employees.  The Nova Scotia RCMP‘s senior leadership team also attended 13 consultation sessions in African Nova Scotian communities.