Advocating for Safer Rides: MKO Concerned About Growing Number of Complaints from First Nations Citizens Using Taxis

For immediate release
May 30, 2019

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) has been receiving an increasing number of complaints from First Nations citizens who have had negative experiences using public transportation systems, specifically taxi cab companies, in both Winnipeg and in Thompson.

“This is very concerning as many people who travel to urban centres from the North must use taxis to access their appointments. People who use taxis should feel safe at all times and not be subjected to any type of behaviour that is threatening, intimidating, or causes harm,” says Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “At the MKO we are especially aware of and concerned about the safety of First Nations women and girls, and we will be working to ensure they are not put in harm’s way simply because they need to use a taxi.”

MKO plans to meet with policing agencies, taxi cab companies, and licensing bodies to develop a strategy to ensure passengers feel confident that they are accessing safe rides when using public transportation systems.

If First Nations citizens from northern communities have concerns about their safety when it comes to taxi cab companies, they can share these concerns with the MKO by emailing us at [email protected] or by calling us at 1-800-442-0488.