Race-based data will soon be collected in select locations this month to better understand interactions between RCMP and people in various communities.
The pilot project follows two years of consultations across Canada.
Data about use of force, arrests and routine checks will provide evidence-based information to help improve how officers serve a diverse population.
Mounties plan to collect, analyze and report the data to gain insight into the experiences of Indigenous Peoples, as well as Black and other racialized individuals, in dealing with officers.
The pilot project comes more than three years after Brenda Lucki, RCMP commissioner at the time, acknowledged that systemic racism exists in the police force.
RCMP believe the project will better understand the nature, extent and effect of systemic racial disparities, and will enable data-driven decision-making and policy development, build trust with communities and ultimately improve safety, the force added.
“This initiative is an important milestone in becoming a more modern and inclusive policing organization,” said RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme. “The initiative isn’t about singling out individuals. It’s about helping us identify and improve our policies, practices, and training to better support our employees.”
The pilot project will roll out in Fort McMurray Alberta, Thompson Manitoba and Whitehorse Yukon.
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