Provincial Commitment to an Inquiry on Systemic Racism is a Step in the Right Direction: Wolastoqey Chiefs

Press Release

May 27, 2026

Wolastoqey Homeland, NB, – The six Chiefs of the Wolastoqey Nation acknowledge that the Holt government has committed to an Indigenous-led inquiry on systemic racism.

“For years, our leaders have called for this inquiry to address ongoing crises our people face in the justice system and return to traditional systems of care and accountability. This commitment is a step in the right direction. Many details remain to be determined,” said Chief Ross Perley of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation). “An Indigenous-led process is necessary to uncover the systemic factors contributing to injustice towards our people.”

The urgency of this inquiry has been escalated following the disproportionate number of police related Indigenous deaths in New Brunswick since 2020. These represent a broader history where colonial systems and institutionalized violence have been used to control Indigenous communities, leading to disproportionate harm.

The Wolastoqey Chiefs have maintained that the 2022 report on racism was incomplete and inadequate. Report Commissioner Manju Varma has acknowledged that her work was not a replacement for an Indigenous-led inquiry.

“Our expectation is that this inquiry will lead to reforming the current justice system to be safer and more responsive to Indigenous people; and restoring our own justice system, legal traditions and structures,” continued Perley.

The Wolastoqey Nation maintains that a return to Indigenous-led community safety is essential to protect their members and end the unnecessary deaths of Indigenous people in the province.

-30-

For media inquiries:

WNNB Communications
media@wolastoqey.ca

ILR5