Meet the Brockville Police

As Brockville continues to become a more diverse community, we have seen firsthand the importance of ensuring that everyone feels welcomed, understood, and comfortable interacting with police. Building relationships with newcomers and international students has become an important part of community policing and helps us better understand the different cultures, experiences, and perspectives within our community.

One example is our ongoing engagement with international students at St. Lawrence College. We have had opportunities to speak with international students about policing in Canada, personal safety, Canadian laws, emergency services, and what they can expect when interacting with police. These presentations also provide an opportunity for students to ask questions and discuss cultural differences they may experience while living in Brockville. For many students, these interactions can help remove some of the uncertainty or hesitation they may have about contacting police or seeking assistance.

Language can also be a significant barrier when communicating with someone who is new to Canada. We have increasingly looked at ways that technology can assist us in communicating effectively when there is a language barrier. Translation technology and other communication tools can help police explain what is happening, gather information, provide direction, and ensure that individuals understand their rights and the services available to them. While technology does not replace the importance of professional interpretation when required, it can be an extremely useful tool for establishing communication and making someone feel heard.

Another important aspect is understanding and respecting religious and cultural traditions when interacting with members of our community. Police officers may encounter individuals whose religious practices, clothing, customs, or traditions are different from their own. Taking the time to understand and respect those differences can make a significant impact on the interaction. Something as simple as being mindful of religious practices, dietary requirements, forms of greeting, or cultural considerations can demonstrate respect and help build trust.

From a policing perspective, diversity is not simply about recognizing that our community is made up of people from different backgrounds. It is about making sure our services are accessible to everyone and that people feel they can approach police without fear or hesitation. The relationships we build through presentations, community events, school programs, and day-to-day interactions allow us to learn from the people we serve.

One of the most rewarding parts of this work is seeing those relationships develop over time. An international student who may initially be unfamiliar with Canadian policing can become comfortable approaching an officer, asking questions, attending a community event, or reaching out for assistance when they need it. Those small interactions can have a lasting impact and help create a stronger sense of belonging within our community.

We are proud to be part of a community that continues to grow and become more diverse, and we see that diversity as an opportunity to learn, build relationships, and strengthen the connection between police and the people we serve.