We are humbled to announce our first annual Truth and Reconciliation Relay. From September 1st to September 30th, GSPS members will be logging their daily kilometres completed during work outs, walks, runs, etc. with a goal of completing one kilometre per child that never returned home from Canadian residential schools. This number is estimated to be 10,000 children (however we acknowledge that the true number may never be known as the search for unmarked graves is still ongoing).

We are running for all the child victims of Canadian Residential schools who endured unimaginable trauma; and for all the families whose lives were forever changed as they watched their children being taken away. Since the onset of colonization and through decades of intergenerational trauma, we acknowledge the role that Police played in systemic racism and we know that there is much work to be done in order to repair and heal the relationship between Police and the Indigenous community.

Each GSPS member participating in the Relay for Reconciliation will complete a 1-hour CPKN course entitled “Reflection on Truth and Reconciliation”, where they will learn about the Calls to Action brought forward by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

This challenge will end on September 30th, 2022, the National Truth and Reconciliation Day (aka Orange Shirt Day).

We’d like to introduce you to some of our Members who will be participating in the Relay. Meet Sergeant Matt Hall, Community Response Unit:

Q: Why did you volunteer to participate in the Truth and Reconciliation Relay? police officer half in uniform half in orange shirt

A: I volunteered to participate in the Truth and Reconciliation Relay to support my brothers and sisters from my GSPS family. As a privileged person, I also feel I have a responsibility to support the members of our community who have suffered so much trauma over the years.

Q: Which Call to Action speaks to you, and why?

A: After reading all 94 Calls to Action, it’s hard to pick just one as they are all very important and it’s astonishing that we even have to discuss these issues in 2022. However, as a father, I would have to say #3 (Jordan’s Principle) really hit home as no child or parent or family should ever have to endure that trauma. 

Q: What does Reconciliation mean to you?

A: Reconciliation to me means acknowledging one’s wrongdoings (intentional or not) and working together to heal, learn from the past and work toward a better future for all.

Q: How do you hope to contribute to positive change, as an individual and as part of the GSPS?

A: I hope to bring more awareness by recognizing past and present issues, understanding the trauma that was caused and paying tribute to Indigenous community members who have suffered for generations, as we move forward, because everyone matters.

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