It has come to our attention, thanks to the efforts of Stand Up 4 Survivors, that Sunchild Deer-Okpik (also known as Jaaji Okpik), part of the musical duo Twin Flames whose song appears in our film, is facing seven criminal charges related to alleged sexual misconduct dating back to 2000. These include sexual assault, sexual touching of a young person while in a position of authority, and forcible confinement. Two individuals are alleged victims, according to an arrest warrant obtained by Radio-Canada.

Okpik, who was a police officer in Nunavik at the time, is now under investigation by Quebec’s Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes. He denies the allegations and plans to contest the charges in court.

Although it is a very disappointing development, it is, unfortunately, not a unique one. It is tempting to think that there are some “good guys” out there, especially those who support efforts to address violence against women and children. The truth is, no one is inherently good or bad. We can choose to act in ways that are kind, considerate, and just, and we can choose to act in ways that are cruel, hurtful, and unjust. It is not possible to know whether any particular man has a history of abusing women and/or children. All we can do is know that it could be anyone, and if we become aware of an allegation we react accordingly.

In a country with the legacy of colonization that Canada has, which includes the over-representation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system, everyone is entitled to make full answer and defense in an accessible system free from bias, including Sunchild Deer-Okpik.

While all are innocent until proven guilty, we also know that the criminal justice system routinely fails women and children who are survivors of violence. Very few of those who commit acts of sexual and other forms of violence against women and children are ever charged with these offences and even fewer are convicted, let alone face any meaningful consequences.

Our position with respect to allegations of violence against women and children, including sexual violence, is to believe and support survivors. False allegations are very rare. False denials are routine.

We thank Stand Up 4 Survivors for bringing this to our attention. We will redouble our efforts to work in solidarity with survivors to end violence against women and their children.

The full article can be found here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/twin-flames-singer-sexual-offences-1.7563171