Coast Salish Territory/Vancouver – The First Nations Leadership Council joined with the families of Robert Pickton’s victims in denouncing a tasteless and inconsiderate comedy routine by Vancouver comedian Richard Lett. In a six minute video posted on YouTube, Lett performs a song about the Pickton case. During the song, Lett sings about the victims to the tune of the old and racially insensitive nursery rhyme “Ten Little Indians”.
“Already faced with the devastating death of their loved ones and an emotionally draining trial, these families should not have to suffer such an appalling attempt at humour,” said BC Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief A-in-chut (Shawn Atleo), “Mr. Lett may try to defend his display of poor taste as social commentary, but the despicable crimes of Robert Pickton and his victims are not something to be made fun of, nor is a comedy club the kind of forum to make commentary,” he added.
“I am absolutely astounded that anyone would sink low enough to actually attempt to joke about William Pickton’s depraved and horrible acts of murderous violence against women. Such callous disregard is exactly why so many women are missing in the Downtown Eastside and along the Highway of Tears. Simply put, if he has any shred of decency, Richard Lett must apologize,” said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs.