A news release from the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and Ochapowace Cree Nation says although there were concerning incidents at a recent hockey game in Wynyard involving the treatment of First Nations players and fans, their message is about the online harassment directed at those involved in the incident afterwards.
FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron says, “harassment of any kind, whether online or in person, goes against our teachings and traditions. The harassment that followed this incident undermines our position and creates further division.”
He and Chief of the Ochapowace Cree Nation, Shelley Bear, are urging the online harassers to instead be the example of the respect and dignity they seek.
The news release says, “We must ensure that our response to injustice does not itself become unjust. All parties involved – fans and community members – have a responsibility to contribute to healing rather than escalating tensions.

Earlier this week, Wynyard’s Mayor, Sigourney Hoytfox posted a statement on social media saying that the Town of Wynyard regrets the incidents that affected their Indigenous visitors at the senior provincial hockey game on February 28th.
“The Town is deeply sorry that what should have been a safe, welcoming event was marred by ugly words and hurtful behaviours and takes the situation seriously.
A number of actions have been listed.

They are:
– engaging with community partners, the FSIN and affected individuals to understand how the town can make its facilities more welcoming and inclusive
-thoroughly reviewing policies, procedures and programming, including the Town of Wynyard’s police for alcohol consumption at hockey games and other events
-reviewing safety plans for recreational events and posting a code of conduct in recreational facilities
-partnering with First Nations organizations to provide ongoing learning opportunities including cultural humility, anti-discrimination response and cultural understanding for our community members, staff and council.