Native leader's hate crimes case come to an end

First Nations

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

After more than six years, a controversial hate crimes case against David Ahenakew, a Native leader from Saskatchewan, has finally come to an end.

Ahenakew, a former chief of the Assembly of First Nations and former president of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, was charged with inciting hate against Jewish people. He defended Hitler and the Holocaust during a speech and subsequent interview with a newspaper reporter.

Ahenakew was found guilty after a trial but won the right to a new one on appeal. In February, a judge called his comments "revolting, disgusting and untrue" but said he didn't commit a crime.

The acquittal came on February 23. The Saskatchewan government had 30 days to appeal but decided against it.

Native leaders condemned the anti-Semitic remarks but Ahenakew found support when he took the stand and blasted Canada for its treatment of Native people.

Get the Story:
No further action on Ahenakew case, acquittal stands (CBC 3/23)
No more appeals in six-year hate crime case of David Ahenakew (CP 3/23)
Crown won't appeal Ahenakew acquital (The Saskatoon StarPhoenix 3/23)

Court of Appeal Decision:
Queen v. Ahenakew (January 14, 2008)

Queen's Bench Decision:
Ahenakew v. Queen (June 8, 2006)

Lower Court Decision:
The Queen v. Ahenakew (July 8, 2005)