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The existence of systemic racism in policing represents a serious threat to the ability of Ontario’s police professionals to deliver effective, fair, and accountable policing services to the people of Ontario. On June 5, 2020, the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) issued a public statement stating that systemic racism exists in policing, that it is never acceptable, and that police leaders must do more than talk about systemic racism. They must take action to eliminate any and all forms...

(Toronto, ON) – Ontario’s police leaders are calling on the Government of Ontario to amend its policy on the use of courthouse cellblocks to allow them to be used after hours by municipal police services. The resolution, which also emphasizes the need to maintain judicial independence regarding the use of court facilities, was passed by OACP members at the association’s 2021 Annual General Meeting held in June.

The Ministry of the Attorney General operates courthouses whose cellblocks are unused...

The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police’s (OACP) Board of Directors engaged in a very productive meeting to discuss how the OACP can work with the OHRC to address systemic racism in policing. The OHRC worked with the OACP in developing its Policy on Eliminating Racial Profiling in Law Enforcement, and our association supported the seven principles outlined in the Policy for eliminating racial profiling and discrimination within law enforcement.

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Law enforcement organizations are complex organizations within the justice system (another complex entity). Progressive police leaders are constantly striving to introduce or advocate for changes that enhance their members’ ability to work in safe and healthy environments, support those members in their work, and deliver on the public’s expectations for effective and efficient policing. Delivering progressive policing is not easy to accomplish, but hard work is necessary if we’re to be part of building...

The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) has partnered with Kids Help Phone (KHP) to support police members and their families during difficult times. KHP is Canada’s only 24/7 national support service. The organization provides professional counselling, information and referrals, and volunteer-led, text-based support to young people in English and French. KHP is now specifically offering support for police members, their children, and other loved ones. In addition, services to support...