RRC Polytech’s Interlake and Peguis – Fisher River Campus did not hold classes today at the Peguis or Fisher River sites to observe J.J. Harper Day, otherwise known as Indigenous Justice Day.

Indigenous Justice Day is to honour the lives lost to systemic racism and acknowledge the work still needed to achieve justice and accountability. The observance today was created in remembrance of J.J. Harper.

John Joseph (J.J.) Harper was a member of Wasagamack First Nation, respected leader, and advocate who was fatally shot by the Winnipeg Police Service in March 1988. He was unarmed and had committed no crime when he was murdered. His death became a powerful example of racial profiling and injustice faced by Indigenous Peoples, and his leadership and voice continue to be remembered as calls for change.

Indigenous people continue to be overrepresented in Canada’s criminal justice system as both victims and those accused of crime.

If you need a quiet space or community support, the Indigenous Support Centres are open at Notre Dame Campus (F209) and Exchange District Campus (P407) in Winnipeg.

If you need someone to talk to, connect with Student Counselling Services or Staff Forum resources.