Surrey Mounties and youth to participate in Aboriginal Canoe Journey

 

SURREY RCMP are participating in this year’s Pulling Together Canoe Journey, hosted by Squamish First Nation, West Vancouver Police Department, and the Royal Canadian Navy from July 5-15. The journey will take paddlers from the Sunshine Coast to the City of Vancouver.

This annual 10-day journey brings together local Indigenous communities, police and other public services agencies, and youth in a unique spiritual experience that blends together culture and teamwork while creating respect and understanding amongst all groups.

Constable Troy Derrick and Assistant Commissioner Dwayne McDonald.

The Surrey RCMP will have their own canoe which will be paddled by Surrey RCMP officers, municipal employees, and selected Surrey School District students and staff as part of the Semiahmoo First Nation family. A total of 28 people will paddle the canoe at some point during the 10-day journey including Deputy Commissioner Brenda Butterworth-Carr, Assistant Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Superintendent Shawn Gill, and the Surrey RCMP’s Diversity Unit.

“The Surrey RCMP is proud to participate in this annual cultural event which builds on our ongoing relationships with the local Indigenous communities,” said Gill, Surrey RCMP Community Services Officer. “From past experiences, we know that everyone who participates comes away with a greater appreciation for First Nations culture and traditions, which helps to strengthen the bond between police, First Nations, and youth here in Surrey.”

“Surrey Schools is proud to partner with the Surrey RCMP in this year’s Pulling Together Canoe Journey,” said Safe Schools Rob Rai, Director, School and Community Connections. “Our students are looking forward to this unique learning experience, paddling alongside police officers and local First Nations, and putting their physical strength to the test. It is our belief that this journey will help set them on a positive learning path and develop some special bonds and relationships within the community.”

The Surrey RCMP will be participating in a number of events throughout the Pulling Together Canoe Journey including cultural dinners and gatherings at different stops along the way. Follow thems on Twitter @SurreyRCMP for updates and photos, or follow the hashtag #ptcanoe17.

For more information on the Pulling Together Canoe Journe, visit http://pullingtogether.ca.