Summary
In this thesis, the author examines the role that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has played and is playing in the lives of Native peoples in Canada; furthermore, he argues that there is the need to refocus policing efforts. From its beginnings in 1873, the RCMP has slowly evolved as one of the most important institutions in the imposition of political destructive processes upon Native peoples. As the RCMP carried out its role, the wounds it inflicted upon Native peoples ran deep. Today, Native peoples have focused themselves upon self-determination as the key to revitalizing their communities. In effect, there has been a call for policing in First Nations communities to respond more to the needs and aspirations of Native peoples. Within this context, the author argues that the RCMP can best accommodate these efforts by becoming a valued partner through community policing initiatives.