Metro police create `a safe place' for area's urban Indigenous youth
When Kirk Rattray became the first Indigenous liaison officer for the Metro Vancouver Transit Police last June, he knew the significance of the blue uniform could feel threatening, even dangerous to urban Indigenous youth.
So in deciding to create a new community cadet program for Lower Mainland Indigenous youth between ages 12 and 15, the name Blue Eagle held a special significance, uniting the blue uniform with the powerful status of the eagle.
The Blue Eagle Community Cadet program, which launches in March, will provide Indigenous youth of all genders the opportunity for culturally connected mentorship, leadership skills and opportunities.
“I would encourage kids just to come try it out,” said Rattray. “The main thing is to have fun, and there will be lots of good food!”
Most importantly, he added, “it's going to be a safe place.”
The two-hour weekly sessions will feature a mix of fun activities, cultural practices and exposure to other policing units. “We will introduce them to the canine teams, take them for a marine section boat ride, and outings like bowling, go-carting and camping,” said Rattray.
The program is being run in partnership with the Vancouver Police Department's diversity, inclusion and Indigenous relations department and Vancouver's Aboriginal Policing Centre (VAPC), and is put together “by Indigenous people, for Indigenous people,” said Norm Leech, executive director of the VAPC and member of the St'at'imc Nation. “Historically, Indigenous people do not consider police to be on their side. For most Indigenous people, when they see police arrive they do not see them as helpful or welcome, but feel distrust, fear and even hatred.”
VPD Indigenous liaison, Const. Rick Lavallee, who is Cree/Métis, is deeply involved with the cultural practices of his West Coast and plains heritage, and is passionate about supporting and empowering youth. “I truly believe that being connected is so empowering for our youth, whether it's to their culture or healthy adult role models.”
A sense of belonging, said Lavallee, “saves lives.”
Cadets will meet on Thursday nights at Britannia Community Centre. The program is free, and is also open to non-Indigenous youth who are interested in learning about Indigenous protocols and culture.
The Blue Eagles Community Cadets will be hosting an open house and information session on March 11, 5 to 7 p.m. at Britannia Community Centre, 1661 Napier St.