Winnipeg police hires external Indigenous Relations Advisor

The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) has hired a former grand chief in Manitoba to be its first external Indigenous Relations Advisor. Sheila North, the former grand chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), was unveiled in the role Tuesday. North, a member of Bunibonibee Cree Nation in northern Manitoba, said the “challenge” was too good to pass up. “I know we have strained relationships between Winnipeg police and Indigenous people in our city and in our province,” she told a news conference. “We have a lot of work to do.” The WPS has struggled in its relationship with Indigenous people, due to mistrust, systemic racism, and a lack of Indigenous officers and senior officials. Bowers said the position was created to help WPS improve that trust. Something he has championed since becoming chief in March. “Reconciliation is more than words, it requires action,” Bowers told reporters. “Reconciliation requires continued growth and an examination of issues from all perspectives.” Bowers said he was delighted that the former journalist, activist and grandmother had accepted the role, noting she would be consulting with him and his executive management team on various “strategic initiatives specific to Indigenous engagement, relations and reconciliation.” City Coun. Markus Chambers, chair of the Winnipeg Police Board, said North’s hire was a “significant and positive step forward” in developing a better relationship between the police force and the Indigenous community. “On behalf of the board, I commend Chief Bowers for bringing in a tremendously experienced, knowledgeable and compassionate leader in Miss North to lend an Indigenous lens to the leadership of the Winnipeg Police Service,” Chambers said. “The board has heard consistently through our community engagement that our police service must not only protect but also support our communities in a way that respect cultures, values, expectations and lived experiences.” A prominent critic of the WPS praised the appointment. “On behalf of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), we extend our congratulations to Sheila North as she steps into this role,” said AMC Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “Her deep understanding of the issues facing First Nations will strengthen dialogue and bring forward the voices of our citizens in areas where it is most needed.” Garrison Settee, grand chief of MKO, said North was uniquely qualified for the position. “Her lived experience and unwavering commitment to justice for Indigenous women and girls will help build bridges between communities and institutions,” Settee said in a release. “MKO is proud to see one of our own take on this vital position, and we look forward to the positive impact she will make.” Continue Reading