Nishnawbe Aski Nation released 13 recommendations to improve safety for all citizens in Thunder Bay.
The report, released Friday afternoon, is based on information and concerns raised at the Safe Streets, Safe Community forum held in the city on Jan. 15. It outlines four key areas – law enforcement, community building, education and communications.
The forum was held after several racially motivated assaults were allegedly committed in the city. A greater police presence on social media was recommended so they can address concerns.
“The goal is to direct those with legitimate concerns to appropriate complaint mechanisms, and discourage the spreading of unproven allegations,” reads the report.
Following that NAN would also like their community members to refer to NAN legal services for any complaints about the police to “discourage using social media to spread unproven allegations, many that police are not aware of.”
NAN would also like to see Aboriginal representation on the special crime task force and any other crime prevention efforts within Thunder Bay and they would also like to see harsher sentences for hate-motivated sexual offences.
In order to improve community spirit, Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School will host an open house on April 20; the general public is encouraged to come and learn about the school.
Greater cultural education within the City of Thunder Bay, local businesses and school boards is also recommended in the report.
Neither NAN nor officials with the Thunder Bay Police Service were available for comment.
