Building Connections, Inspiring Futures: Indigenous Youth Visit Ottawa Police Station

On July 11, 2025, the Ottawa Police Service proudly welcomed a group of 14 Indigenous youth and 13 chaperones to the Elgin Street Police Station.

The visit was part of a week-long initiative led by the Indigenous Police Chiefs of Ontario (IPCO), bringing together youth and police representatives from Wikwemikong Tribal Police, Anishinabek Police Service, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and other police services.

The Ottawa Police’s Community Youth Unit coordinated closely with IPCO to ensure the youth had a welcoming, engaging, and memorable experience in Ottawa.

Throughout the day, participants explored different areas of the station and toured the 9-1-1 Communications Centre. Presentations by the Tactical and K9 Units gave the youth an opportunity to learn about specialized equipment and meet a police service dog up close.

The group also received a unique guided tour of Parliament, hosted by the Ottawa Police’s Parliamentary District Unit, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Canada’s federal institutions.

For many of them, this week in Ottawa marked their first time leaving their home communities. The IPCO-led program, held from July 7 to 11, aims to empower Indigenous youth through leadership experiences, cultural connection, and meaningful engagement with public safety partners.

It was an honour to host and connect with such a bright, engaged group of future leaders.