The Edmonton Police Service marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with a visit to the Boyle Street Education Centre.
“It’s so good to see our uniform members here, interacting with the youth. That's what it's about and building those relationships for tomorrow,” said Deputy Chief Darren Derko.
“THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT FOR THEM”
The B.S.E.C. is a major hub for inner-city youth, specifically Indigenous students. Since opening its doors in 1995, the centre offers students education, cultural teachings and essential services. During the event with EPS, youth heard from a residential school survivor and witnessed Indigenous ceremonies while reflecting on reconciliation and the future.
“It's also a moment to look forward and considering the future for our youth and the hopefulness and the amount of pride. Just going back to our ways,” said school Superintendent Debbie Michaels.
The day itself is about healing and learning lessons from Canada’s darkest chapter. Spawned by the residential school system which caused generational trauma. But it’s also about bolstering ties in the community and making new connections. Organizers decided lunch and a few fun activities would help build ties.
“We have tons of fun things. Dunk-a-Cop and three on three basketball. I think these are the real things that will help us to just take that leap and move forward,” said EPS Indigenous Relations Advisor Christie Pace.
“ACTUALLY, IT WAS THE SCHOOL’S IDEA”
One of the first EPS members to take the plunge in the Dunk Tank was Deputy Chief Warren Driechel. He was dressed in the full uniform minus the duty belt.
“I'm not really sure how to describe it at this point. It's pretty shocking. It's a little cold, but it's for a good cause.”
And according to Pace, the official mandate is to hopefully continue the conversation: learning from the past and embracing the future as a community.
“I think I would love for our students and the school to just walk away feeling like they can have a relationship with the Edmonton Police. That is really one of the things I hope that we can achieve going forward.”
Thank you to all of the volunteers who made this special day possible.