C/Supt. Sue Black:
Q: As a senior leader, what would you say to women who are interested in a career with the RCMP?
A: I would say, "Go for it!" The RCMP is a police force like no other. Beyond our traditional understanding of what police work is all about, there are so many other opportunities available to our officers. The sky is the limit. We have a wide and varied mandate that includes front line policing, federal policing, national security and VIP protection, and each of these areas holds an array of job opportunities. You can follow your own path, depending on your interests. Know that women in the RCMP hold senior leadership roles throughout the organization, where they're setting the bar and inspiring their younger counterparts.
Q: As a little girl growing up in Saguenay, Quebec, did you see female police officers in the community? If so, did they inspire you to become a police officer? If not, what made policing attractive to you?
A: Unfortunately, I didn't see female police officers in my community, except for one, in 1980, who came to my high school to do a recruiting presentation for the RCMP. I was so impressed to see this woman in uniform (original red serge) and was so excited to see what Depot was all about. I could see myself there. As I continued through high school, I looked into policing as a career and was really drawn to being able to help people in need, as well as standing up for what's right. The RCMP motto of "maintien le droit" really resonated with me.
Q: When you joined the RCMP, how many females were in your troop?
A: I joined the RCMP in 1989 and was part of the last all-female troop. We started with 26 members and on graduation, were down to 24. Depot was an amazing experience and I really appreciated having my troopmates' support through the highs and lows of it all.
Q. Traditionally, policing has been a male-dominated profession. What, in your opinion, has attracted more women into the career?
I think women have always been attracted to policing as a career, but have been held back by social and family pressures to conform to more feminine roles. I credit the rise in applicants over the years to our trailblazers from the first-ever female troop; they truly led the way and opened the doors for the rest of us. They showed us we could do it too, and I can't thank them enough for this. Now young women thinking of a policing career have many more role models who serve as inspiration, and these officers can be turned to for support and advice as well.
Q: This year's Women's History Month emphasizes the importance of recognizing the achievements and contributions of women from diverse backgrounds. Compared to when you first joined the RCMP, do you feel the organization has become more inclusive? If so, what stands out as examples?
A: Yes, I definitely feel the RCMP has become more inclusive. One great example is how former Commissioner Brenda Lucki appointed eight women as Commanding Officers during her tenure and many other women to Deputy Commissioner levels, in both civilian and police categories. We still have much more work to do. We need to be intentional in all of our hiring, staffing and promotion processes to ensure we have women and men from diverse backgrounds represented in all types of policing roles within the force. Women from diverse backgrounds are still underrepresented and I'm looking forward to being able to cheer on the decision makers who give opportunities for these women to shine.
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Amandeep Kaur:
Q: As an Immigrant to Canada, what would you say to women who are interested in a career with the RCMP?
A: I would encourage women interested in a career with the RCMP to pursue their aspirations with determination and dedication. The RCMP values diversity and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds; it's an inclusive and supportive work environment. Emphasize your strength, seek mentorship, and contribute to the community through service and leadership. Your unique perspective and skills can make a meaningful impact in law enforcement.
Q: As a little girl growing up in India, did you see female police officers in the community? What made you explore a career in law enforcement?
In my culture, it's very common for women to study and stay home to raise a family. However, I always dreamed to be a police officer and hope that I can encourage other women with the same career aspirations to pursue a career in law enforcement.
Q: How does the Diversity and Inclusive Pre-Cadet Experience (DICE) help remove systemic barriers that impact racialized and underrepresented persons who aspire to join the RCMP?
DICE aims to break down barriers by providing support, mentorship, and resources to racialized and underrepresented individuals aspiring to join the RCMP. The program addresses systemic issues through targeted initiatives, fostering a more inclusive environment within the organization.
Q: Traditionally, policing has been a male-dominated profession. What, in your opinion, has attracted more women into the career?
I believe changing societal perceptions and increased efforts to promote gender equality have contributed to more women considering and pursuing careers in policing.
Q: Why do you feel it is important to increase diversity within the RCMP? Would you recommend the DICE program to others?
Diversity is important for building trust in communities and fostering a more comprehensive understanding of diverse needs. The inclusion of different perspectives enhances problem-solving and overall effectiveness. As for DICE, if someone is looking to join the RCMP and falls under the program's scope, it could offer valuable support and resources, making it a worthwhile consideration. Upon completing my training at the Depot Division, I shared my experience with my friends and recommended that they consider applying for it.