People of colour face racism and discrimination in many aspects of their lives, including the workplace, where they often encounter systemic hurdles to career advancement. In this webinar, Jacqueline Edwards will address anti-Blackness and systemic racism affecting our communities and police forces, with the goal of advancing positive outcomes.

This fireside-style session will provide insights into how boards and commissions can improve the experiences of Black and other racialized individuals in law enforcement and elevate the image of policing within our communities.

Jacqueline Edwards, President, Association of Black Law Enforcers
Jacqueline Edwards is a 26 year plus veteran with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) and has worked in various positions within CSC at the institutional, regional and national levels. In 2019, she became the first female elected President of the Association of Black Law Enforcers (A.B.L.E.), which was formed in 1992 to improve the image of law enforcement within the Black and racialized communities and provide mentorship, counseling, coaching and guidance to those interested in justice sector related careers.

The following are two examples out of many of Jacqueline’s numerous accolades and recognitions. First, Jacqueline was an Ambassador for Canada when she was selected to lead the coordination of a Senior Executive Leadership Training initiative for two International Delegations from Trinidad & Tobago Prison Service as well as the Bahamas Department of Corrections. Second, Jacqueline received the 2021 Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police President’s Award of Merit, the association’s highest honour.

Jacqueline has a passion for civility, equity, inclusion, diversity and contributing to and creating healthy, respectful and culturally sensitive interactions and work environments. She seeks out opportunities to promote cultural awareness and sensitivity, embracing differences and fostering good relations with diverse people and communities. Jacqueline migrated from Jamaica at the age of seven, completed her formal studies in Toronto, Ontario and has resided in Kingston, Ontario for the past 28 years. She is a respected member of her community and across the justice sector.

The Association of Black Law Enforcers (A.B.L.E.) is a non-profit organization formed in 1992 to address the needs and concerns of Black and other racial minorities in law enforcement and the community. The membership includes Police Officers, Correctional Officers, Probation and Parole Officers, Immigration Officers, Customs Officers, Court Services Officers, By-law Enforcement Officers, Sheriff’s Officers, Special Constables and members from the community.