The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) is honoured to recognize the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation in support of Residential School Survivors, their families, and all those impacted by the legacy of residential schools.
At sunrise, a Sacred Fire was lit in ceremony outside the WPS North District Station by WPS Fire Keepers alongside Elder Mike Calder. The fire will be maintained for 24 hours and will remain burning until sunrise on September 28, when it will be left to extinguish naturally.
The Sacred Fire serves as a place of reflection, learning, and respect. Members of the public and the Service are invited to approach the fire in a good way, guided by the Fire Keepers, and to reflect on the importance of healing, understanding, and meaningful change.
This afternoon, the WPS and community members are gathering for a formal ceremony to reaffirm its commitment to Reconciliation. The Service will also host a community celebration and barbecue in partnership with the Winnipeg Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre (WASAC). The event will feature performances by the Norman Chief Memorial Dancers and Keewatin Breeze.
The Winnipeg Police Service is grateful for the opportunity to come together with community partners, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and residents to reflect on our ongoing journey of Reconciliation. Through opportunities to learn, listen, and build meaningful relationships, we continue to strengthen our connections with Indigenous peoples and communities. These relationships are essential to advancing our mission of providing service with pride and dedication to all Winnipeggers while fostering safer, stronger, and more inclusive communities for everyone.