I am pleased to welcome Inspector Jeremy Pearson to the executive team of the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) as the Deputy Chief of Administration. The skills, knowledge, and ability that he has developed have served him well in his career and will continue to assist him as he takes on this senior leadership role. I have seen the work that Jeremy has done, his commitment to provide superior service to the community, and his ability to communicate with compassion.
Earlier this month, the Thunder Bay Police Service Board announced the re-appointment of Ryan Hughes as the Deputy Chief of Police for the TBPS for two years. In the past 1 1/2 years, I have seen Ryan’s commitment to the Police Service and community. He is a valued member of the TBPS and is a respected senior police leader in the Province of Ontario.
I would like to thank the Board for these appointments. Our executive leadership team is well positioned to continue to modernize and grow the TBPS into one of the premier police services in Ontario.
TBPS Brings MMIWG2S Tree of Hope to Parliament Hill
I am pleased to share that a Tree of Hope now shines at Parliament Hill to build awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited people (MMIWG2S). In 2019, the MMIWG2S Tree of Hope Project began at the Thunder Bay Police Service. The red lights on the MMIWG2S Tree of Hope pay tribute to those lost.
It has since been adopted by other police services throughout Ontario.
Yesterday, for the first time, TBPS brought the MMIWG2S Tree of Hope project to Parliament Hill. I was joined by now-retired Const. Sharlene Bourdeau, who created the project, along with elders, drummers, Minister of Indigenous Services Honourable Patty Hajdu and guests to heighten awareness of the rates of violence against MMIWG2S people.
It was an honour to have the Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse participate. When she recognized our Service for “doing this hard work and heart work,” it was a moment of great pride.
Bringing the MMIWG2S Tree of Hope to Parliament Hill amplifies our pledge to hold each victim in our hearts as we continue to work in a good way to protect our community. Please keep them in your thoughts this season, and always.
I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Merry Christmas to you, and the very best in 2025.