NCJ Number
98718
Date Published
1985
Length
110 pages
Annotation
This 1981 study examines the interaction between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Native people in the Provinces of Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, with the focus on the extent to which the RCMP are sensitive to aspects of Native culture in performing policing duties.
Abstract
In the study's first phase, a 15-percent probability sample was drawn from all constables and noncommissioned officers performing general police duties in the three Provinces. The sample included both regular officers and Indian special constables (Native police officers). A total of 344 (85 percent) of the regular-officer sample and 66 (80 percent) of the Indian special constable sample responded to a questionnaire mailed in late 1981. The questionnaire solicited respondents' views on (1) the effect of Native culture on policing style, (2) unique policing problems in Native communities, (3) ways to improve policing in Native communities, and (4) the role of Native special constables in policing Native communities. The study's second phase involved field research in RCMP operational detachments and the Native communities they serve. The findings revealed conflict between the RCMP and Native communities derived from the larger conflict between Native cultural identity and values and dominant Canadian society, represented in the Native perspective by the police. Natives perceive Canadian law and its enforcement in their communities as an oppressive force that neither reflects nor respects their traditional cultural values and organization. The situation could be improved by selecting and training police with a view toward developing a policing style sensitive to Native cultural values and attitudes. Also, involving Native community leaders in the development of policing policy could help reduce police-community conflict. Tabular data and a 31-item bibliography are provided.