Community
Chief apologizes to LGBTQ2S+ community on behalf of EPS

Edmonton Police Service Chief Dale McFee has apologized to the LGBTQ2S+ community on behalf of the EPS.
The apology is the start of a reconciliation process with members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Two-Spirit community.
It noted that while police have an obligation to uphold the law and to create safe communities for everyone, the EPS has not always demonstrated behaviors and approaches which demonstrate these core values.
“To the members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer and Two-Spirited community – both across our public and within our service – on behalf of the Edmonton Police Service, I am sorry and we are sorry,” said Chief McFee. “Our actions caused pain. They eroded trust. They created fear. They caused members of the public and our service alike to feel unsafe on their own streets, in their workplaces and even their homes.”
Chief McFee pledged to stand against homophobia, transphobia and any other kind of marginalization, denigration or disrespect. He also invited people to share their stories and to participate in shaping an engagement process aimed at changing the essential nature of the relationship between the EPS and the community.
Chief McFee also indicated that part of the reconciliation will include a look inward to understand the impact that the EPS has had historically, on its own members.
“To make sure we get this right it has to be guided and informed by those in our community. By those who have spoken out before, and by those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to share their voices. We are requesting advice, guidance and partnership,” said Chief McFee, adding that the engagement process will allow people to share often difficult experiences.
The EPS is also asking members of the LGBTQ2S+ community to share their ideas about the engagement process through a specially established website, www.epsinput.ca .The input shared will shape the design of the engagement process, which will be facilitated by external consultants early in the fall of 2019.
A live stream and then recording of the Chief’s speech can be viewed on the EPS Facebook page at www.facebook.com/edmontonpoliceservice.
Community
Headliners Wickenheiser and Straschnitzki lead the way at Lending Cupboard fundraiser with $10,000.00 donation

‘An Evening with The Lending Cupboard’ proves an inspiring, community-building event
Special guests Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser and Ryan Straschnitzki strongly endorse TLC’s vision
‘An Evening with The Lending Cupboard’, held on June 16th at the Cambridge Hotel in Red Deer, proved to be an exciting, inspiring event featuring Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser and Ryan Straschnitzki.
“When I was contacted to come and do this, it was a no-brainer given what I do now in medicine,” explained Wickenheiser, who is also of course a highly-acclaimed Olympic gold medalist and author in her own right. “This is a brilliant idea. I don’t know why we aren’t doing this across the country – it makes a lot of sense!
“It provides a very valuable service in the community…if we can help to raise that profile, that’s so good.”
During the event, Wickenheiser shared many details of her own memorable journey, reflecting on the hockey dreams that have been intrinsic to her life from a young age. She then interviewed Straschnitzki onstage, giving him the opportunity to reflect on the Humboldt bus crash of April 6, 2018 and the courageous steps he has taken to re-build his life since.
“My entire process from the time of the accident has made me realize how this kind of support really helps out,” explained Straschnitzki, adding that bolstering awareness about the service is critical as well. “It’s such a great idea, and it benefits so many people. The more the word can be spread about it, there’s even more of an impact that can be made. “Being in a wheelchair these past four years, I’ve realized how inaccessible things can be when you live with a disability, so I think it’s important to raise awareness about these kinds of programs,” he added. “I think it’s a great initiative!”
Executive Director Dawna Morey also commented on how thankful she was for how the event unfolded, and how inviting Wickenheiser and Straschnitzki – who turned out to be a powerful duo – was indeed the right choice. “I’m humbled that they joined us, and I’m also humbled by their incredible generosity – having donated $10,000 back to The Lending Cupboard.”
Amanda Blair, TLC’s Board Chair, said she was blown away by the generosity of all the attendees, including of course Wickenheiser and Straschnitzki – and the overall support from the community. “Seeing everyone pull together just gives you that faith in humanity – it warms your heart,” she said. “Everyone there was also super enthusiastic about it – I think a lot of people learned more about The Lending Cupboard, which is also what we are trying to do.”
Community
Last chance!! The 2022 Red Deer Hospital Lottery ends tonight!

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