REGINA – Saskatchewan RCMP are always looking for keen recruits to begin their policing career, and recently hosted 36 Indigenous applicants from across the province. Touted as “the first of it’s kind” Indigenous Recruiting Session, perspective Cadets hailed from points between Stony Rapids and Maple Creek.
Last August, the Indigenous Recruiting Unit was established with a team of three recruiters based in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert. They travel across the province, sharing their experiences of joining the RCMP as an Indigenous person.
"One of the Saskatchewan RCMP's top priorities is ensuring our officers are representative of the communities we serve and, as such, enhancing recruiting efforts in Indigenous communities is critical to ensuring our success in this area," stated Saskatchewan RCMP's Commanding Officer, A/Commr. Rhonda Blackmore. "The officers of this new unit work alongside current Saskatchewan RCMP Recruiters to meet and recruit those applicants who endeavour to be a positive influence in and protect their communities as future police officers."
Mentorship is key for the IRU, hence the multi-day session that provided the opportunity to work closely with those navigating the sometimes daunting application process.
"This recruiting session really gives our Indigenous applicants the opportunity for that one-on-one mentorship and a first-hand view of what a possible career with the RCMP looks like,” said Indigenous recruiter Cst. Wanda McKenzie. “It provides a chance for our Indigenous applicants to see and hear about the unique opportunities it can offer our Indigenous people.”
McKenzie is fluent in Cree, and shared her experience of using Cree language and culture in her policing career.
"Not many people speak Cree or Dene, or other Indigenous languages,” McKenzie said. “The opportunities it has given me in my career have been so unbelievable that I can't even share them all with you today. We need more of this in the RCMP so we can be a better team. Take the time to learn the language and use the languages, as they will take you places and can help you out in our communities."
Guest speakers includied 2nd Vice Chief Edward “Dutch” Lerat and Jason Stonechild of FSIN during the three-day session. There was also a “meet and greet” with Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty, who also shared some of his experience from his time with the RCMP.
"We are hopeful that these applicants will not only see the remainder of their application processes through to the end, but that they will continue to reach out to our Indigenous recruiters for mentorship and discussions throughout the process,” said Indigenous Recruiter Cpl. Kim Gobeil. “We hope their positive experience with the Indigenous Recruiting Session is shared with others when they return to their home communities and that we can continue hosting similar events and really make an impact on RCMP recruitment in our province."
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