A final reports B.C.’s Human Rights Commissioner reveals that a key agreement aimed at tackling anti-Indigenous racism in Vancouver policing has fallen short of delivering promised systemic changes.
Background on the 2019 Incident
The agreement stems from a 2019 wrongful arrest involving Heiltsuk Nation member Maxwell Johnson and his 12-year-old granddaughter. The pair sought to open a bank account at a BMO branch in downtown Vancouver in December 2019. Bank staff, after reviewing their identification including status cards, reported suspected fraud to 911. Vancouver Police Department officers handcuffed them but released the duo shortly after confirming no fraud occurred.
The officers faced suspension for misconduct, leading to a human rights settlement that included financial compensation and an apology ceremony in Bella Bella, B.C. While senior police leadership and board members attended, the arresting officers missed the event for personal reasons and later submitted written apologies.
Maxwell Johnson described the officers’ absence as deeply disheartening, emphasizing its impact on rebuilding trust.
Report Highlights Progress and Shortfalls
Human Rights Commissioner Kasari Govender independently reviewed the 2022 agreement between the Vancouver Police Board and the affected Heiltsuk members. The police board met several standalone commitments, such as updating training programs and enhancing complaint processes to incorporate Indigenous cultural practices.
However, joint reforms requiring collaboration with the Heiltsuk Nation stalled. The Heiltsuk Tribal Council and the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs halted participation after the officers skipped the apology ceremony. This breakdown prevented advancements in training specific to Indigenous status cards, a core issue in the original incident.
Call for Continued Systemic Change
Govender stresses the need for collaborative efforts, stating, “Without truly collaborative systemic reform to policing in British Columbia, Indigenous people will continue to face discrimination at the hands of law enforcement.” She added, “Both the process and the outcomes of addressing systemic racism matter; without inclusive processes, outcomes will falter.”
The settlement sought broader impacts, including better anti-racism training, stronger policies, and improved ties with Indigenous communities. Despite the agreement’s timeline ending, Govender hopes these initiatives persist.
A separate review by the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner continues, assessing whether the officers must deliver a direct, in-person apology. In December 2023, Johnson and his granddaughter requested reconsideration of disciplinary actions and a second reparations ceremony in Bella Bella.
