Research

The project begins with research examining how police accountability systems operate in Manitoba and in other jurisdictions.

This research includes three areas:

1) Inquest systems

We are examining the history and development of the inquest system in Manitoba, with a focus on its intended preventive function. The research also compares Manitoba’s system with inquest systems in other Canadian and common-law jurisdictions to identify models that more effectively produce recommendations aimed at preventing future deaths.

2) Systemic police complaint bodies

We are reviewing police accountability systems that allow complaints about systemic practices, rather than only individual officers. In Canada, these powers currently exist in limited form in Ontario, British Columbia, and within the federal oversight of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

3) Indigenous legal processes

Preliminary research suggests that systemic investigative processes that are inquisitorial, focused on truth-seeking, and oriented toward public safety rather than blame share important similarities with Indigenous legal traditions. The project therefore includes a literature review exploring Indigenous legal processes related to deliberation, truth-finding, and community decision-making.

Engage

A central part of the project is consultation with communities affected by police violence. Beginning in 2026, the Coalition is meeting with Indigenous governance organizations, community groups, affected families, legal experts, and researchers.

The consultation process has two parts:

1) OPEN community consultations

These meetings will take place with organizations representing Indigenous and urban communities across Manitoba, including:

• Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs

• Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO)

• Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO)

• Manitoba Métis Federation

• Aboriginal Council of Winnipeg and Manitoba Association of Friendship Centres

Community members will have the opportunity to discuss their experiences with police accountability processes and their ideas for reform.

Two public community sessions will also be held to allow broader participation.

2) Targeted circles

Following the open consultations, the Coalition will host focused discussions with people who have direct experience or expertise relevant to the reforms being proposed.

These include:

Affected Families Circle

Families whose loved ones died in police encounters will be invited to discuss their experiences navigating investigations, inquests, and accountability processes.

Police Accountability Experts Circle

Legal scholars, oversight experts, and policy researchers will examine potential models for systemic police accountability.

Indigenous Law Experts Circle

Indigenous legal scholars and Elders will discuss how Indigenous legal traditions and processes may inform approaches to truth-seeking, accountability, and public safety.

RePORT

The project will culminate in the development of two reports containing proposed legislative amendments - one regarding reforms to the Fatal Inquiries Act, and one regarding reforms to the Police Services Act.

These reports will be publicly released and shared with communities, organizations, and the Government of Manitoba. The Coalition will seek to meet with government officials to discuss the proposed reforms and the steps needed to implement them.