THUNDER BAY, ON: Jonathon Mamakwa, father of late Kevin Mamakwa, has issued the following
statement on behalf of the Mamakwa family as the inquest begins today to investigate the
circumstances around his son’s tragic passing while in custody at the Thunder Bay Jail:
“My son died in a place that should have been safe. That fact alone demands accountability.
Any institution responsible for people in its care has a duty to assess risk, manage it, and
act when warning signs are present. Proper risk assessments, supervision, and follow-
through with the appropriate care are basic responsibilities. The most important question
we have about our son’s passing is: how did this happen? How did a young man with clearly
identified vulnerabilities die in a place designed to protect life?
Kevin had mental health issues. He tried to reach out for help, including services designed
to serve First Nations people. But he did not receive consistent or meaningful care. I’ve seen
what accountability looks like in other systems, where families are met with quickly, plans
are designed and put in place, and appropriate counselling and supports are provided. But
none of this happened for Kevin.
We are not speaking out just because Kevin was our son. We are looking for answers
because we know that there are many other First Nations members, particularly the young
people, who are asking for help and not receiving attention until it is too late. We need
systems that respond, that follow through, and that treat mental health care as essential.
That is why we are pushing for change – by speaking out, demanding accountability, and
doing anything we can to advocate for services where they don’t exist.
I am still angry, but I have moved past uncontrollable anger. I want to speak for those who
cannot speak for themselves. Nobody benefits if we remain silent, and no change will come
if we don’t face, head-on, the truth about the conditions faced by our members while
incarcerated and the care they receive. I truly hope these answers will come from this
inquest. Our family wants healing, closure, and the opportunity to move forward. But closure
only comes when something changes, when accountability is real, and when no other family
has to stand where we are standing now.”
Kevin Mamakwa, 27, died on June 2, 2020 in the Thunder Bay Jail. An inquest into his passing
begins today. It is expected to last 10 days and hear from approximately 15 witnesses.
The Mamakwa family is represented by Meaghan Daniel, Barrister & Solicitor. Contact: 514-944-8154,
meg@meaghandaniel.com
