AMC Condemns Incarceration of First Nations Woman for Tuberculosis Treatment

December 3, 2024

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) expresses outrage over the extreme and egregious treatment of Geraldine Mason, a 36-year-old First Nations woman from God’s Lake First Nation, under Manitoba’s Public Health Act. Ms. Mason was incarcerated, strip-searched, and placed in a correctional facility to enforce tuberculosis treatment despite having no criminal record and not being infectious. This incident highlights systemic failures, abuse of authority, and the ongoing inequities faced by First Nations citizens in both the public health and justice systems.

“The incarceration of a First Nations mother for public health reasons is unacceptable,” said Acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy. “It reflects a systemic failure to respect our rights to health, safety, and dignity. First Nations citizens deserve equitable healthcare, not punitive measures that deepen trauma.”

It is the role of the province to ensure culturally safe and competent services while ensuring dignity and human rights. It has been referenced in the news that according to the apprehension order, a one-on-one treatment plan was created for Ms. Mason, which showed signs of success, but the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch didn’t have the resources to maintain it. Applying what has been recognized through Jordan’s Principle, a lack of funding should never be a reason for incarcerating any person due to public health.

Therefore, in addition to working directly with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs to make informed amendments within your Public Safety Strategy that address the distinct needs of First Nations citizens, the AMC calls on the Province of Manitoba to:

1. An immediate review of Public Health Act policies to prevent future incidents.
2. Investment in First Nations-Led and Culturally Sensitive Solutions.
3. Consultation with First Nations to create policies that address remote community realities.
4. A public apology from the Province of Manitoba for the harm caused to Ms. Mason and her family.

This case underscores the urgent need to address the systemic issues causing public health challenges in First Nations, including underfunding of housing and healthcare. The AMC has called on the Province of Manitoba to honour their reconciliatory statements to end discrimination and racism perpetuated against First Nations People within the healthcare systems. AMC stands with Ms. Mason, her family, and God’s Lake First Nation in demanding accountability and systemic change.

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For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

NT5