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e-2663 (Social affairs and equality)

E-petition
Initiated by Carolyn Weatherson from Guelph, Ontario

Original language of petition: English

Petition to the Government of Canada

Whereas:
  • The practice of carding, random street checks to obtain identifying information by police, has had a disproportionate impact on Black, racialized, and Indigenous communities and has not lead to a reduction in crime;
  • After a fact finding mission in October 2016, the United Nations' Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent expressed concerns that racial profiling is endemic to carding strategies and practices used by Canadian law enforcement;
  • Carding is an oppressive practice that does not reflect Canada's core values of inclusivity, political justice, and social freedom; and
  • Carding implements a systematic violation of people's Charter rights, human rights, and privacy rights.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to ban the practice of carding in Canada.

Response by the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Joël Lightbound, M.P

Policing based solely on a person’s race or ethnicity is abhorrent, unacceptable and unlawful. It is contrary to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Government of Canada remains firm that there is no place for racism or bias of any kind within police forces in Canada.

In any interaction with the public, officers with the RCMP are guided by Bias-Free Policing Policy, which is based on the principles of equality and non-discrimination. It is against the RCMP’s values and commitments to the public, as well as the RCMP policy, to practice carding. In addition, any collection of personal information by the RCMP must comply with the requirements set out in the Privacy Act and regulations.

The RCMP continuously reviews and updates its policies, procedures and training to address identified gaps, and to ensure it remains a proactive and responsive police service. The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP is currently reviewing the RCMP’s policies and procedures regarding street checks. Upon receipt of that report, their recommendations will be reviewed with the current policy.

Open for signature
June 10, 2020, at 2:22 p.m. (EDT)
Closed for signature
August 9, 2020, at 2:22 p.m. (EDT)
Presented to the House of Commons
Lloyd Longfield (Guelph)
September 29, 2020 (Petition No. 432-00032)
Government response tabled
November 16, 2020
Photo - Lloyd Longfield
Guelph
Liberal Caucus
Ontario
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