Combining culture and policing at the Treaty 4 Citizens Police Academy
By Kastor Cote
The Treaty 4 Citizens Police Academy prepares young Indigenous recruits for a future career in law enforcement through the lens of their own cultural perspective.
As spring draws to an end, recruits at the academy are working hard to complete the immersive two-week-long experience at the University of Regina, where they not only learn the basics of police training but have aspects of Indigenous culture woven into the experience.
The program helps Indigenous people find strength and inclusion within not only the police force but within their culture as well, as they learn how to balance the two.
Long-time Regina City Police officer Constable Stuart Keshane, a member of Keeseekoose First Nation, runs the program and said he aspires to help prepare young Indigenous recruits for the next step in their policing journey.
“We give them experience,” Keshane said. “The reason why a lot of Indigenous applicants are not successful with the process is that they don’t know what to expect.”
His mentorship and leadership skills are an important part of this program, as he is able to provide unique insight on what it means to be a Indigenous police officer and to help recruits navigate challenges they may face.
Keshane also emphasizes the importance of reflecting the community through diversity within the force. “We want to reflect the community we serve,” he said.
Hunter Pewapsconias, from Little Pine First Nation in Treaty 6 Territory, is one of 16 recruits partaking in the program. She said she wants to be part of a more inclusive policing community.
“I know there’s a lack of representation so I just want to be that representation for people who may not be comfortable around police,” Pewapsconias said.
However, for many across Canada, disconnection between Indigenous peoples and law enforcement goes further than just representation, because it is rooted in systemic injustices throughout Canadian history.
Pewapsconias said she is hoping to break that barrier.
“A lot of Indigenous communities feel there’s a disconnection,” she said. “Having Indigenous representation and going to a program like The Treaty 4 Police Academy, we could break that barrier.”
Ultimately, this program creates a space where cultural aspects are integrated within the environment, creating a place where Indigenous recruits can feel safe and respected within their identity.
Recruit Leon Pelletier, a member of Cowessess First Nation, said the program includes smudging, sweats and Elder teachings.
“I am personally not traditional,” Pelletier said, “so I’m really excited to learn about the culture.”
