Armed Forces investigated on Native discrimination

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A human rights tribunal investigating a complaint of discrimination against the Canadian Armed Forces by an Aboriginal soldier will resume May 24.

The Human Rights Commission will hear final arguments on charges the Canadian Army is insensitive to the culture and values of First Nations persons and has discriminated against the Natives in its ranks.

The complainant is Melvin Swan, a former military policeman from Lake Manitoba First Nation. Swan is seeking damages totalling four years lost wages plus legal costs. He quit the forces in late 1988 after 15 years and filed the complaint of racial discrimination in early 1989.

Swan also expects an apology from the military and the initiation of cross-cultural programs that would improve the treatment of Native choosing to pursue a military career.

"It was me against the whole system," said Swan, describing the response to his complaint five years ago.

He said now he's got the support of his people and feels strongly about forcing changes in the way the military treats First Nations.

"It's personal, deep-down, and at the center of my being. I have to do what's right for other First Nations."