THUNDER BAY -- A new Indigenous representative has been added to the city’s police service board.
A request made by Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Anna Betty Achneepineskum during her deputation to the Thunder Bay Police Services Board three months ago.
On Tuesday, Thunder Bay police welcomed Ontario Native Women’s Association program manager of services Serenity Perry as the police board’s new Indigenous Resource Person.
Perry shares similar feelings with Achneepineskum as they both believe in the importance of providing Indigenous citizens with a voice.
“I want to highlight Indigenous issues and give voice around them, particularly issues around Indigenous women and children,” Perry said.
“These are issues that impact the entirety of the Indigenous community and I really want to bring that voice because I think it’s important.”
Perry wants to speak to these issues and provide the board with the perspective they need to help address and respond to these concerns, which she says will help build community partnerships.
“I really believe in women’s issues and addressing them and that woman and children are the backbone of the community,” Perry said.
Since Thunder Bay is a hub for Indigenous people, Perry thinks an Indigenous representative is needed as there are a lot of interactions with the Indigenous community and the police, but no voice.
Perry’s initial priority is to highlight Indigenous issues starting with that relationship.
“I know it’s already started, but I guess keeping the momentum going and ceasing that opportunity to continue that relationship and continue responding to these issues,” she said.
“I know there were a number of recommendations that came out of that inquest, so responding to those and creating meaningful change.”
Perry will serve on the board in an interim position until a permanent full-time member can be appointed.
