Sheila North (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Oshawa Social Co)
The Winnipeg Police Service has appointed Sheila North as its first external Indigenous relations advisor, marking what Chief Gene Bowers called an important step in the service’s reconciliation efforts.
North, a former Grand Chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, is a nationally recognized leader and advocate with a background in journalism, politics, entrepreneurship, and Indigenous engagement. She has also worked internationally with the International Commission on Missing Persons and, most recently, as executive director of external Indigenous relations at the University of Winnipeg.
In her new role, North will provide advice and guidance to the police executive on Indigenous engagement and reconciliation initiatives.
“I look forward to helping renew and rebuild relationships between the Winnipeg Police Service and the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people who live in our city and province,” North said in a release.
“Any opportunity to make Winnipeg safer and more welcoming is one we can’t afford to miss.”
In a statement, MKO congratulated its former leader on Tuesday.
“Sheila North brings both strength and compassion to this role,” said MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “Her lived experience and unwavering commitment to justice for Indigenous women and girls will help build bridges between communities and institutions. MKO is proud to see one of our own take on this vital position, and we look forward to the positive impact she will make.”
Watch Tuesday’s news conference:
