The Tsuut'ina Nation Police Service is hosting a conference to help create a better understanding and examine the effects of colonialism. Photo by Stephen Strand
The Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service is hosting a two-day conference, called Reframing Our Relationships with Indigenous Communities, which is dedicated to developing a better understanding of Canada’s true shared history.
The Chief of Police with the Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service, Keith Blake, explains more.
Chief Blake adds that some of the laws that have come down in the past and the way policing has been dealt with has affected Indigenous people disproportionately.
With that said, Chief Blake says he feels the current relationship between their police force and the community is positive.
According to Blake, while the last community satisfaction report showed about a 97 per cent satisfaction rate, he feels it is always something they need to work on and improve upon.
As part of the conference, they brought in experts and those who have been involved in making change.
Blake adds that the conference is about being open and sharing information.
According to Brittany Ouellette, the Executive Director with the Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service, it was important for them to host this conference.
At the conference, there are numerous speakers, and with those speakers, they are hoping to create a common understanding.
Ouellette adds that the past has affected the present in regards to policing.
She adds that she would like to see police have a more trauma informed approach, which Ouellette says would benefit everyone.
Ouellette adds that the conference is about having tough conversations.
Those in law enforcement, the Alberta government, the judicial system, and more are in attendance at the conference.
The conference is taking place at the Grey Eagle Resort & Casino today (October 28) and Wednesday, October 29.
To learn more about the conference, click here.
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