In 2009, Downtown Division constables were instrumental in breaking down a language barrier in policing.
Officers learned through the Edmonton Chinese Community Liaison Committee that some elders in the Chinese community spoke very little English; as a result, these elders were not reporting crimes.
The constables came up with a simple solution: Chinese cards. These cards have a hotline phone number that connects citizens to one of three Chinese-speaking officers. Constables who speak Cantonese and Mandarin then assist the complainant and try to resolve the issue.
The cards have been distributed to businesses and organizations in the Chinese community. Since the constables started this project, crime reporting has increased significantly amongst this cultural group.
“This type of initiative is the hallmark of our community policing vision,” remarked Chief Boyd. “Working together to break down language barriers certainly fosters the spirits of respect and understanding that strengthen our commitment to a racism-free city.”
Chief’s Advisory Council (CAC)
A key component in the EPS vision for a racism-free Edmonton is the Chief’s Advisory Council (CAC). This council was established in 2004 to engage the EPS and Edmontonians in a proactive dialogue, a dialogue centred on developing mutual trust, information sharing, and relationship building.
Since its inception, the CAC has been working with various multicultural community groups to foster a climate of safety, security, and mutual respect.
Community Liaison Committees (CLC)
Currently, the CAC comprises nine CLC members, representing the following groups:
- Aboriginal
- African Canadian
- Asian
- Black
- Indo-Canadian
- Jewish
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans-Identified, Two-Spirited, and Queer
- Muslim
- Youth (the formation of this committee is still in the planning stages)
“I’m very proud of the strides we’ve made through the Chief’s Advisory Council,” Noted Chief Boyd. He went on to explain that the Community Liaison Committees have grown from an initial six to our current nine.
“The CLC membership is keenly aware that the EPS values our input,” remarked CLC/CAC member Ansar Qureshi. “We’re deeply committed to keeping the EPS up-to-date as to trends and concerns within each group, and to working together on respective community problem solving initiatives.”
Chief’s Advisory Council (CAC) Membership
Each CLC elects several of their members to be CLC liaison members. The CLC liaison members attend the CAC as their respective CLC representatives.
Chief Boyd personally meets with the CAC membership quarterly.
Senior officers participate in Community Liaison Committees (CLC)
In 2009, EPS Senior Officers became active CLC members.
“Having senior officers join the CLCs empowered our ability to strengthen our already strong relationship with the EPS,” noted CAC member Louise Hayes.
“In addition, working with senior officers provides us with direct access to the CAC and an open line of communication.”
The open line of communication between CLCs and the EPS ensures that issues and concerns will be delivered to the Chief’s Advisory Committee without delay.
A racism-free workplace
“The EPS is deeply committed to ensuring that all members, sworn and non-sworn, enjoy a racism-free work environment,” remarked Chief Boyd.
To increase our commitment to supporting a diverse and racism-free workplace, the EPS created the Diversity and Inclusion Unit (DIU). The DIU team is a bridge between the EPS, the CAC, and other diverse ethnic groups within the city.
The DIU shares information, develops relationships and builds trust. As such, the unit participates in various events and celebrations across the entire city. For instance, DIU team members attend special events such as Chinese New Years celebrations, Aboriginal Youth Information fairs, International Women’s Day, and Black History month.
Brochures printed in various languages
“I’ve had the privilege of living in Edmonton now for four years, and one of the first things that struck me about this great city, is the pride that Edmontonians take in sharing their cultural traditions,” noted Chief Boyd. “I also admire how committed so many groups are to ensuring that their young people are taught the language of their homeland.”
The EPS truly embraces the value of reaching out to all Edmontonians. “We want people to know that we’re accessible and willing to hear their concerns,” said Chief Boyd.
“Throughout 2009, the EPS produced several brochures around the theme of crime prevention,” marked CLC member Mei Hung. “These brochures were distributed to Edmontonians through the five divisional EPS Offices, Community Liaison Officers, and Canada Post mail drops.”
“There’s no question, by investing in brochures in languages other than English, the EPS showcased its vision whereby all Edmontonians can fully understand the EPS commitment to ensuring that our community remains a great place to raise a family . . . a city where people from various homelands live side by side in peace and harmony,” continued Hung.
“The EPS is deeply committed to respecting the customs and beliefs of all Edmontonians throughout the entire year,” concluded Chief Boyd.