The Canadian Human Rights Commission is asking a judge to hear a case against a former member of parliament who sent out mailers with anti-Native commentary.

In 2002 and 2003, Jim Pankiw sent pamphlets to his constituents in Saskatchewan about First Nations policies. The mailers included slogans like "Stop Indian Crime" and "It's Clear Who the Racists Are."

Some residents complained but a tribunal ruled last month that the mailings weren't covered by the Canadian Human Rights Act. The Canadian Human Rights Commission believes the tribunal interpreted the law incorrectly.

Pankiw used to represent Saskatoon-Humboldt as an MP. He lost his seat in the 2004 election but says he is planning a return to politics.

Get the Story:
Federal Court asked to review racism complaint over ex-MP's mail-outs (CBC 4/6)
Pankiw ruling appealed (CP 4/7)
Human rights commission appeals Pankiw ruling (The Saskatoon Star Phoenix 4/7)