The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is proud to recognize the creation of the Police Inspector Joel Whittaker Award by the National Black Coalition of Canada (NBCC), honouring his legacy of service, mentorship, and community connection.
For retired EPS Inspector Joel Whittaker, the recognition came as a surprise.
“I never saw myself as a trailblazer,” said Whittaker. “I just loved being a police officer – getting out into the community, connecting with people, and doing the work. To be recognized in this way is truly humbling.”
Whittaker’s career spans nearly four decades, defined by dedication, leadership, and a deep commitment to community. He worked in a variety of roles across the service, including Patrol, the Tactical Unit, and as a Duty Officer overseeing citywide operations. He also made history as the first Black Police Inspector at EPS and served as a liaison with the Black community through the Chief’s Advisory Council. After 32 years with EPS, he continued his policing career with the RCMP for a further six years before retiring.
Throughout his career, Whittaker was widely respected for his professionalism, strong work ethic, and mentorship of others. Deputy Chief Keith Johnson, who worked under Whittaker early in his career, credits him as a role model.
“Joel was an exceptional leader who led by example every day,” said Johnson. “I learned a great deal from him – his work ethic, his approach to leadership, and his commitment to law enforcement have had a lasting impact on many of us. I followed in his footsteps.”
The NBCC, which has long maintained a strong and positive relationship with EPS, partnered to create the award and accompanying scholarship to recognize Whittaker’s contributions and to inspire the next generation of leaders. It is presented to a Black youth who demonstrates leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to building safer, more inclusive communities.
The inaugural award was recently presented by retired Inspector Joel Whittaker and Deputy Chief Keith Johnson to Barisua Tornwe, a sociology and criminology student, during the NBCC Awards of Excellence on March 28, 2026.
Whittaker himself has received multiple honours for his work, including two awards from the NBCC and the Governor General of Canada Order of Merit of the Police Forces, but this recognition holds special meaning.
“I was telling my mom, this isn’t about me receiving an award, it’s about an award being named after me,” he said. “To be remembered alongside others who have made a difference in this community, that means everything to me.”
Through this award, Whittaker’s legacy will continue inspiring young people to lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and help shape a stronger future for Edmonton.
