Continuing Challenges for Indigenous Passengers at Airports Despite New Guidelines
In the latest efforts to respect the cultural and spiritual practices of Indigenous travelers, Canada’s airport security authority implemented new protocols in 2022 aimed at better accommodating sacred items during screening processes. However, some Indigenous passengers have reported ongoing difficulties when passing through airport security with these precious items, raising questions about the effectiveness of these new measures.
Kelly Lavallee, affiliated with the Métis Nation of Ontario, shared her troubling experience while flying from Billy Bishop airport in Toronto to Thunder Bay. Lavallee, who frequently travels with cultural items such as medicines and eagle feathers in her carry-on, recounted a recent incident where her sacred items were subjected to what she felt was invasive handling by airport security personnel. “It was almost like a spectacle for them,” Lavallee remarked, highlighting the disrespect she felt during an incident that not only caused her emotional distress but also delayed her flight.
Despite informing the staff that the items should not be touched, Lavallee was informed that the security officers, having undergone cultural sensitivity training, had the authority to inspect any item if they deemed it necessary for safety reasons. Lavallee’s dissatisfaction stems from what she perceives as a lack of genuine understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures, evidenced by the handling of her sacred belongings.
This incident signals a broader issue for Indigenous travelers, who often approach airport security with apprehension about how their sacred items will be treated. Lavallee intends to escalate the matter with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), hoping for improvements in how Indigenous cultural items are respected during airport screenings.
Responding to concerns, CATSA spokesperson Suzanne Perseo highlighted that screening officers receive training to handle sacred and spiritual items delicately. “Our goal is to ensure that these items are screened with the utmost sensitivity and respect,” Perseo stated. She also mentioned that the authority reviews complaints thoroughly, applying corrective actions like additional training when necessary.
In partnership with First Peoples Group, CATSA has ramped up efforts in Indigenous cultural awareness training, with thousands of employees participating and more sessions planned. Heather Watts of First Peoples Group shed light on the options available to travelers carrying sacred items, including the introduction of a facilitator role at major airports. This role is designed to assist passengers through the screening process in a way that honors both security protocols and cultural sensitivity.
Travelers, such as Greg Dreaver from Mistawasis in Treaty 6 territory, have noted improvements in airport screenings over the years. Reflecting on his own experiences, Dreaver shared how recent interactions with airport security have been more respectful and understanding, especially when carrying traditional medicines. “They went the extra mile to inquire in a good way,” he said, expressing relief at the absence of invasive inspections that he faced in the past.
Despite some positive changes, the conversation surrounding the respectful treatment of Indigenous sacred items at airports continues. Stories like Lavallee’s and Dreaver’s illuminate the ongoing efforts and challenges in ensuring that Indigenous travelers can carry their sacred items without fear of disrespect or mishandling. As these discussions evolve, the hope is for a future where security measures and cultural reverence coexist harmoniously, recognizing the dignity and traditions of all passengers.
