The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) and community partners are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the popular Oskayak Police Academy.
Oskayak, meaning “youth” in the Cree language, brings Indigenous youth and police officers together in a safe environment to challenge stereotypes, gain a better understanding of one another, and build relationships through cross-cultural activities.
“Oskayak was born out of discussions with the Indigenous community, who wanted us to focus more energy on youth, and help build better relationships between the Indigenous community and the Edmonton Police Service,” says Christie Pace, EPS Indigenous Relations Advisor.
“We wanted to take the uniform out of the equation so we could have open and honest conversations, interact in positive ways, and give them the reassurance that they have a police officer they can come to and speak with.”
The program is unique in that it brings together elements of policing and the Indigenous worldview to create possibilities for Indigenous youth, which would not have been possible without the support of the Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society from the very beginning.
Murray Knutson, the Deputy Director of Bent Arrow, has seen these positive impacts first-hand.
“Oskayak Police Academy has provided an opportunity for Indigenous youth and Edmonton police to learn from and appreciate each other. The program offers youth a chance to learn about policing and the work of the diverse departments within the Service. Equally important, the program offers youth and officers a chance to experience Indigenous culture through activities such as drum making, medicine picking, and Elder teachings.”
“Over the years, I’ve had the chance to see many Oskayak graduates move on to exciting chapters in their lives as they become adults. It’s great to see that Oskayak is in many ways a leadership development program too.”
Approximately 25 self-identified Indigenous youth from grades 10 to 12 are participating in this year’s Oskayak Police Academy running from Aug. 12 to 23, 2024. The various daily activities take place at Bent Arrow, various EPS facilities, and the Alexander First Nation. At the end of the two-week program, the youth take part in a graduation ceremony with their families.
Since the launch of Oskayak in 2014, approximately 270 youth and more than 30 EPS specialized units have participated in Oskayak, and former participants continue to be involved with the program today and share their own experiences.
Hailey-Emma McRae, who took part in 2016, returned this year to assist with the Indigenous ribbon skirt and shirt making for youth and police officers.
“I was 16 years old when I went as a participant, and I was very interested to see my own thoughts and views with the police officers. Everyone was so welcoming and encouraging, and seeing them engaged in our culture and walking beside us as well, that was very important. This opportunity with Oskayak highlighted the importance of community and just being there with each other.”
The innovative program won the national Wolf award in 2016 for efforts to improve harmony between cultures.
“Oskayak is probably one of the highlights of my career in terms of the work we’re doing with the community and connecting with youth,” adds Christie Pace. “It’s one of the biggest Indigenous youth engagements that EPS has done, and its longevity and success are a testament to the passion of so many individuals who continue to be involved.”
“I think it speaks to putting reconciliation into action, where we can provide an opportunity for these youth to have a safe place within policing, and build the relationships and trust that can help change the narrative.”
The 2024 Oskayak Police Academy is offered free of charge through the support of community partners such as Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society, Edmonton Native Healing Centre, Edmonton Police Foundation, and TD Canada Trust.
