The Nova Scotia RCMP has issued a formal apology to African Nova Scotians and people of African descent for the historic use of street checks and other harmful interactions.
During a ceremony at the North Preston Community Centre on Saturday, the RCMP acknowledged the harm caused by these practices, which disproportionately targeted Black Nova Scotians for decades. The apology came after years of calls from community members and advocates for accountability and reform.
“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,” said assistant commissioner Dennis Daley. “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.”
The ceremony was …