The Aboriginal Youth Police Academy (AYPA) provides an opportunity for EPS officers and Aboriginal youth to share a culturally-inclusive learning experience, discuss specific issues and ways to move forward, and establish an ongoing dialogue of understanding and trust for the future.
The intent of this program is building trusting relationships, which begins with creating safe spaces where discussions and knowledge sharing can take place,” says Andrea Levey, EPS Aboriginal Relations Coordinator. “This academy has brought together so many community members and organizations in partnership with the EPS, and we hope that this spirit of community continues on in the hearts and actions of police members and youth participants in the future.”
Aboriginal youth will play a significant role in our city’s future. Edmonton has the second largest urban Aboriginal population in Canada, and will see an unprecedented growth of the Aboriginal community in the next five to 20 years. Approximately 50 per cent of the Aboriginal population is under 25 years of age.
“Our urban Aboriginal youth are constantly trying to walk in two worlds – keeping up with what is needed to function in everyday society, and still trying to stay connected to their culture,” says Sherry Fowler, Team Leader with Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society. “This program will give them one more tool to help them move forward in a way that will honour their journeys. We are hoping that there is a better understanding by the youth of the healthy connections between themselves, the community, and the police.”
Approximately 30 youth, ages 13 to 18 years, will be participating in the daily AYPA program from Aug. 12 to 15, 2014. Participants will undergo training in leadership development, attend educational sessions with diverse speakers, role models and Elders, and experience what it is like to be a police recruit. Upon completion, participants will attend a unique graduation ceremony and dinner featuring special guests and speakers, and a traditional Aboriginal blanket presentation and performances.
The AYPA was modelled after the highly-successful EPS Youth and Citizen Police Academies. The AYPA program was developed in partnership with: the Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society; Reach Edmonton; the City of Edmonton; Métis Child and Family Services; the Red Cross; Edmonton Catholic Schools; Amiskwaciy Academy; the Boyle Street Education Centre; and the Ben Calf Robe Society. Program funding comes from: REACH Edmonton; Bent Arrow; and the City of Edmonton.
For more information on the EPS Aboriginal Relations Unit, please visit www.edmontonpolice.ca/aboriginalrelations.
