by Emily Brown / photo courtesy of OPP Museum circa 1974 first women in OPP Uniform Recruit Class

Editor’s Note: This article along with several more photos will be published in the next edition to “Beyond the Badge” magazine.

Since 1921, women have been playing a crucial role in shaping the OPP. This year marks the 50th Anniversary of Women in Uniform in the Ontario Provincial Police.

Women in uniform have come a long way in the last 50 years. Before 1974, women were not allowed to serve as uniform members in the organization and were only permitted to hold civilian roles such as receptionists or data entry clerks. In 1972, a task force was established by the Solicitor-General’s Office of Ontario to investigate policing practices across the province. The task force discovered that female civilians and officers’ spouses were being asked to perform duties typically reserved for officers, such as searching or guarding female prisoners. The report questioned why women were being prevented from assuming positions as uniform officers.

Within the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the Commissioner at the time, Harold H. Graham was supportive of the recruitment of women as provincial constables. The task force’s final report in February 1974 advocated for greater diversity within police services, and Graham quickly responded. On June 21, 1974, fifteen women graduated as provincial constables, marking a turning point in policing history in Ontario.

The women who graduated faced various challenges as they began their careers. Some fortunately encountered openness and a willingness to mentor, while others were faced with doubts and skepticism by their colleagues. Despite these challenges, 39 women joined the OPP in 1974, and the number steadily grew to 99 women in uniform by 1982. Many faced commentaries not only from their colleagues but in the media and from the public. Some decided to pursue other career paths or left policing to start families, while others remained committed to policing.

One such female trailblazer within the OPP was Carol Ann Marshall (Alfred), who emerged as a beacon of change. Marshall was hired in 1978, becoming the first black female officer to serve with the OPP.
In a profession that has always struggled to attract women and members from diverse backgrounds, Marshall deserves recognition for leading the way for the next generation.

Marshall was born in Barbados, in 1953. Her father, Ashton, was an assistant commissioner with the Barbados police. At 17, Marshall left Barbados to study in Virginia on an international scholarship, eventually finding her way to Canada to attend Trent University. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in geography and an education degree from the University of Toronto. Marshall was a teacher in Ontario public schools and then went on to serve six years with the Ontario Provincial Police and was valedictorian of her OPP graduating class.

In a 2021 interview, Marshall reflected on her experience joining the OPP as the first black female member. “It wasn’t a big deal for me because I grew up in Barbados and my father was in the police force – I grew up surrounded by police officers, and many of them were women, so for me, it wasn’t a big deal,” Marshall commented. “It was only after I joined that people started making a big deal of it – for me it never was.”

Marshall initially began her career in education, but very shortly was told that she was going to be laid off. Because of her exposure to policing as a child, the OPP was a natural shift for her.
“I remembered the OPP because of my Dad, he was the International Police Association’s rep in Barbados, so he knew police officers all over the world – and I thought, ‘Well, this is something I know,’ and that’s what made me apply, and I got hired.”

Marshall went on to reflect on her tenure with the OPP and offered some sage words of wisdom for women both currently in law enforcement and women considering a career in policing.

“I think it is really important to know who you are as a woman before you join because you are going to be tested – a lot, whether you want to or not. It’s not a job to be taken lightly, it’s a huge commitment and it’s a serious commitment, so it’s important that when you join, you know that this is something I really want to do and look at all of the challenges that police officers face and determine if you want to be involved in all of that. Also, know what you value as a woman because all of that will be tested, and you are going to be held to a higher standard than the guys are.”

Marshall’s story highlights the importance of representation and perseverance. Her efforts deserve recognition for paving the way for future generations of women and individuals from diverse backgrounds in law enforcement.

The Ontario Provincial Police has set a goal to have a workforce that represents the communities it serves. Women in uniform roles remain underrepresented in frontline policing, but the OPP has made significant strides toward positive changes and empowering women to consider a career in policing. Women who are interested in pursuing a career in policing are encouraged to visit opp.ca/careers for more information on the hiring process.

OPP Detective Sergeant Tara Bolstad of the Perth County Detachment and Detective Constable Kathleen Menard of the AGCO honoured Manitoulin OPP Provincial Constable Marc Hovingh with their participation in the US Law enforcement Memorial Run from Philadelphia to Washington DC during the annual American National Police Week – May 12-14th, 2023. This week the officers honoured Marc with a presentation of a framed portrait to Marc’s wife Lianne Hovingh.

March 4 to 10, 2024 is Social Work Week in Ontario, and across Canada, March is National Social Work Month. This March, we invite you to learn more about how #SocialWorkOpensDoors for people across Ontario, and join us in celebrating this essential work. 

Social Workers create meaningful and life changing connections with the individuals and families they support. They do this by being an empathetic witness, walking alongside individuals as they navigate the complexities of life challenges while providing evidenced-based treatment, resources and tools to cope. They also guide individuals to reach within themselves to identify their own capabilities, strengths and personal resiliency. The social workers connected to our First Responder communities are a valuable and important part of healing and hope for First Responders and their families.

While we are grateful every day for Social Workers, this week on Social Worker Week, we want to acknowledge the dedication and commitment that Social Workers display in their work with others who many find themselves needing a safe space to land life’s challenges. 

We are here to support 24/7/365. Please connect with one of the Encompas Team members by calling 1 866-794-9117 or emailing info@encompascare.ca .

OPP Association Director, and former OPPA President Rob Jamieson was appointed as a Member in the Order of Merit of the Police Forces at an Investiture Ceremony that took place at Rideau Hall on February 15, 2024. Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, invested 1 Commander (C.O.M.), 16 Officers (O.O.M.) and 80 Members (M.O.M.) into the Order of Merit of the Police Forces during two ceremonies at Rideau Hall.

The Governor General and Mike Duheme, Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, delivered remarks honouring the appointees.

The Order of Merit of the Police Forces honours the leadership and exceptional service, or distinctive merit displayed by the members of Canadian police services and recognizes their commitment to Canada, contributions to policing, and community development.

Rob Jamieson is known for his leadership in pioneering the Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program addressing the need for sustainable action to assist members and their families with their mental health.
As word spread among the membership regarding Jamieson’s investiture to this prestigious order, a number of congratulatory messages from the membership were sent.

In one such message, OPPA Branch 4 Vice President, Dan Pyrah remarked, “On behalf of Branch 4, congratulations Rob on this well-deserved Member of the Order of Merit. You steered the OPPA through a very dark period in our history. The OPPA’s Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program that provides unlimited psychological help is your legacy. Your many years of dedication to our membership and our well-being has been recognized, not only by the OPPA, but by the Governor General of Canada. Once again, sincere congratulations.”

Jamieson was in good company with several OPP members being invested. OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique was invested as Commander in the Order of Merit of the Police Forces. OPP Superintendent Karen A. Meyer, OPP Detective Inspector Daniel Nadeau, OPP Superintendent Gary Warren Maracle, and OPP Superintendent Carole Matthews were invested as Members at the same ceremony. Fellow Police Association members appointed were former President of the Edmonton Police Association Michael Elliott invested as a Member, and former Police Association of Ontario President Bruce Chapman was appointed a promotion to Officer of The Order of Merit of the Police Forces.

For a complete list of the appointees across Canada invested in 2024, visit The Governor General’s press release.

Congratulations are extended from the OPP Association to all the appointees.

Photo of OPP Association Director Rob Jamieson and Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada by Sgt Anis Assari, Rideau Hall © OSGG, 2024

OPP Detective Sergeant Tara Bolstad of the Perth County Detachment (in photo) and Detective Constable Kathleen Menard of the AGCO honoured Provincial Constable Greg Pierzchala with their participation in the US Law enforcement Memorial Run from Philadelphia to Washington DC during the annual American National Police Week – May 12-14th, 2023. On February 23, 2024 the officers honoured Greg with a presentation of a framed portrait to his family at OPPA Head Office in Barrie.

Please consider a GoFundMe donation to assist the daughter of two of our OPP Association members get the treatment she requires to recover. Avery Thompson was seriously injured in a hockey game and requires a specialized MRI available only in USA which is not covered by benefits.

The OPP have launched an OPP Family Wellness Resource Guide.

Mindset Matters – Where Shared Experiences Connect People

Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program

Wednesday, March 6^th – 10:00am ET – 11:00am ET

Featuring Retired OPP Officer and President of the OPPVA, Robert Pilon – Rob Pilon’s 30+ Year Journey of Service, Support and Leadership

Hosted by Carl Dalton, CEO, Dalton Associates

Join us on Wednesday, March 6th, from 10:00am EST – 11:00am EST where Carl Dalton (CEO of Dalton Associates), will have a conversation with retired OPP Officer and President of the OPPVA, Robert Pilon. Robert will share the journey of his 30+ year career through his perspectives as:

• A father of four, who faithfully served with the support and encouragement of his wife in numerous communities throughout Northern Ontario
• A father of a police family – two of his four children followed him into policing and leadership – his daughter who recently retired as a Sergeant in the OPP North Bay Provincial Communications Centre and his son Mike is Chief Superintendent at Northeast Regional Headquarters; his other two children are educators.
• An officer who experienced his own struggles which motivated him to become a leader and to provide the support he believes everyone is due in this profession – Rob’s final position was Superintendent at OPP Northeast Region HQ
• A Retiree since 2003 and a grandfather

Rob is here to share his wisdom and passion regarding the importance of seeking help when needed. He wants everyone to know there is no shame in doing so even though this was not always the case. He believes no one should suffer alone particularly with so many resources now available. He is passionate about the power of connecting with others during difficult times and he is also here to encourage participation in the OPPVA as one of those vital supports. Rob has been a member of the OPP Veterans Association since 1999, a member of the Board since 2016 and since 2022 has served as President.

Visit www.encompascare.ca to learn more.

Note: To ensure your anonymity, your registration information will ONLY be available to the hosts from Dalton Associates. Registrants will NOT have the option of turning on their camera or microphone at any time. Questions will be managed through the text Q&A which are sent only to the hosts – Dalton Associates. They will either answer those questions verbally without referencing the name of the participant who asked the question, or privately through the text function. 

All sessions will be delivered through the PHIPA compliant version of Zoom Webinar.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact encompas@daltonassociates.ca

Nancy MacDonald and Shelley Atkinson, both widows of police officers killed in the line of duty, honoured their husbands, and were joined by Police Service representatives and Police Association representatives, including Ontario Provincial Police Association Vice President David Sabatini at a Ministry of the Solicitor General of Ontario press conference giving police more resources to monitor and enforce bail conditions at the Durham Regional Police Service Education and Training Centre in Whitby on Thursday January 11, 2024.

The following are details as released in a new release by Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.

NEWS RELEASE Ontario Putting More Repeat Violent Offenders Behind Bars Province giving police more resources to monitor and enforce bail conditions January 11, 2024 Ministry of the Solicitor General

WHITBY — As part of the province’s plan to protect communities, support victims of crime and keep people safe, the Ontario government is investing $24 million over three years to help prevent repeat and violent offenders from committing serious crimes while out on bail. “It is unacceptable that repeat and violent offenders are committing serious crimes while out on bail,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “By giving police the tools they need to track and arrest offenders who violate their bail conditions, our government is helping to ensure Ontario is one of the safest jurisdictions in Canada.” The investment is being delivered through the Bail Compliance and Warrant Apprehension (BCWA) Grant program and will help police services establish dedicated bail compliance and/or warrant apprehension teams to monitor high-risk individuals. It will also support new technology for a provincewide bail compliance monitoring system. The BCWA Grant program is part of a $112 million investment to strengthen the province’s bail system and ensure high-risk and repeat violent offenders comply with their bail conditions. Other measures include: The creation of a Bail Compliance Unit within the OPP’s Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (ROPE) Squad The establishment of Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams within the court system A new provincewide bail compliance dashboard to help monitor high-risk offenders with the most accurate data possible The BCWA Grant program will support 17 municipal police services, four First Nations police services and 12 Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) services. Quotes “We are proud of the work we have done in collaboration with Toronto on the bail dashboard and appreciate the Ontario government’s investment to expand it across Ontario. The sustained success of the dashboard and bail compliance initiatives will come from the continued support and investments to deliver and grow this important community safety program.” – Chief Peter Moreira Durham Regional Police Service “The Police Association of Ontario represents over 28,000 police service personnel that service 45 communities provincewide. For years, members have been raising issues with Canada’s bail framework and how it was failing to prioritize the safety of our communities. The Government of Ontario’s continued support for increased bail compliance and monitoring will allow police to better ensure violent offenders out on bail are unable to commit further crimes and allow officers to continue to keep our communities safe.” – Mark Baxter President, Police Association of Ontario “Violent crimes committed by repeat offenders and individuals released on bail pose a significant risk to public and officer safety. The alarming level of re-offending, especially violence towards police in the execution of their duties, drives home the need for change. The Bail Compliance and Warrant Apprehension (BCWA) Grant program will enhance monitoring and tracking of those out on bail who pose the highest risk of committing further criminal acts and make our communities safer. Everyone in the province can get behind that.” – Deputy Chief Roger Wilkie 1st Vice-President, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police “The City of Toronto, along with communities across Ontario, continue to deal with a troubling number of incidents of gun and gang violence, many involving individuals who are out on bail. We’ve heard from community members and organizations who have called for coordination between police, community supports, city resources and all levels of government to address this issue. This funding will support the initiatives our Service is undertaking in the area of bail compliance to ensure these high-risk individuals don’t have the opportunity to reoffend. I would like to thank the Ontario government for continuing to support police services across Ontario and the victims of these crimes.” – Chief Myron Demkiw Toronto Police Service

Pictured: (L-R) Jon Reid, President Toronto Police Association, Nancy MacDonald (widow of Sudbury Police Constable Joey MacDonald), Mark Baxter, President Police Association of Ontario, Shelley Atkinson (widow of Windsor Police Constable John Atkinson), Michael Kerzner (Ontario Solicitor General), Rob O’Quinn (York Regional Police Association President), Andrew Tummonds (Durham Regional Police Association), John Brooks (Barrie Police Association) and David Sabatini (VP Ontario Provincial Police Association)

Congratulations to Eden Food for Change on raising more than $78,000 to supply food to people in need this holiday season. On Sunday December 3, 2023 the Ontario Provincial Police Association Branch 4 and the Mississauga Detachment of the OPP were honoured to support the Eden Food for Change “Brunch with Santa” event in Mississauga as a silver sponsor along with our community partners, Peel Paramedic Union, Peel Regional Police Association, Mississauga Fire Fighters Association., and many more community sponsors. The event was a huge success. Special thank you to Imran Hassan from the Board of Directors of Eden Food for Change for leading this event, and Branch 4 Vice President Dan Pyrah, Branch 4 Executive Director Patrick Chatelain, Mississauga OPP Sgt Reggie Dava and Milton Offender Transport Unit Jaspal Singh for leading the support for the OPP Association. More pics posted on the Ontario Provincial Police Association Facebook page.