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“It is deeply concerning to us as the provincial police service to hear one of our media releases as categorized as biased and not in line with our relationship with the FSIN, and all the communities we serve,” he said. “We welcome the opportunity to discuss the issues and address them. The FSIN is one of our essential partners and we value their input greatly.”

Cameron also addressed the storm of reactions to the shooting on social media.

“Over the past few days there have been comments made on social media that are concerning and could be criminal in nature. It is understandable, that during a situation like this, emotions run high. It is important to let the court process to run its course. I ask everyone to remain respectful in their online communications,” he said.

He said the RCMP will reach out to the FSIN to discuss the organization’s concerns.

“Someone from the RCMP has spoken to (the) FSIN. At this point I am not aware of a meeting date, only that we will be engaging with them to discuss the matter,” he said.

“I am happy that FSIN has expressed their concerns. With a partner like FSIN, it is important we maintain that communication. We now have a chance to hear their concerns and work together to move forward on that.”

Sunchild has spent much of her career educating people about Saskatchewan’s colonial history and its effects. She’s represented hundreds of residential school survivors, and organized a major reconciliation exhibit in a North Battleford gallery featuring work by both indigenous and non-indigenous artists.

She said many young people of all cultures “get it,” but changing opinions of the general public and those in power will take a long time. Sunchild noted it took more than 125 years for the government to stop calling Chief Poundmaker’s peaceful requests to feed his starving people the “siege” of Fort Battleford.

“That’s how our province was set up,” she said. “We all have children here. Things need to change.”

jwarick@postmedia.com