Recent fires and incidents of vandalism are not deterring cabinet ministers Nahanni Fontaine and Bernadette Smith from their political roles, as Fontaine affirms. Fontaine emphasizes that despite concerns for their safety following multiple fires and acts of vandalism at their campaign offices, they remain committed to their duties and communities. The Winnipeg police major crimes unit is actively investigating four fires at Smith’s Point Douglas office and incidents of vandalism and a fire at Fontaine’s St. Johns office during the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The incidents were a focal point during the Manitoba Legislature’s first question period of the fall session.
Both sides of the aisle condemned political violence, locally and internationally, during the discussions. Fontaine faced criticism for reposting a social media post after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a supporter of U.S. President Donald Trump. The post, shared by a U.S.-based Indigenous activist, labeled Kirk as “racist, xenophobic, transphobic, Islamophobic,” and filled with hate. While Fontaine has apologized, Progressive Conservative Leader Obby Khan has called for her removal from cabinet.
Premier Wab Kinew believes the incidents of fires and vandalism targeting the two Indigenous women cabinet ministers were deliberate and possibly motivated by gender-based violence and Indigenous-specific racism. Additional safety measures are being considered, with MLAs allocated funds for security systems at their constituency offices.
Smith describes the fires and vandalism at her office as an assault on democracy, impacting their ability to serve constituents fully. She notes a progression from broken windows to deliberate fires and sabotage of security measures. The incidents have forced staff to meet constituents in public spaces for safety reasons. Smith stresses the need for discussions on enhancing security and addressing political violence, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ongoing investigations and security concerns have left a lasting impact on both ministers, affecting their staff and constituents. Fontaine and Smith remain resolute in their dedication to serving their communities despite the challenges posed by these targeted acts of violence.
