Championing Gender-Inclusive Policing

The Canadian Police Knowledge Network (CPKN) hosted its final Network Webinar Series of the year on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, welcoming over 60 participants from 26 services and organizations.

The webinar, titled Creating and Fostering a Safe Workplace for Trans and Gender Diverse Employees, featured insights from the Gender Diversity in Canadian Policing Advisory Group and was scheduled during Transgender Awareness Week and right before Transgender Day of Remembrance.

“This is an important week for the Trans and Gender Diverse community,” said Madeleine Goldsmith, Constable and Diversity and Equity Officer, Halifax Regional Police.  “Our Advisory Group is committed to working with police and public safety organizations to advance a culture of inclusion, understanding, and respect for gender diversity across Canada. This webinar is a great way to start the conversation on a national scale.”

Formed after meeting at the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police conference in 2022, the advisory group is comprised of current or former people who have worked in policing across the country and have lived experience and/or are allies. The group works collectively to develop and recommend best practices, programming, policy, and education on gender diversity within public safety.

The discussion centered on the well-being of trans and gender diverse staff in policing workplaces. Presenters discussed how leadership, supervisors, and colleagues can contribute to building supportive and inclusive workplace environments. Key topics included policy development, recognizing and addressing unsafe spaces, access to employee resources, navigating gender transition in the workplace, allyship, and progressive leadership strategies to promote inclusion.

“By taking meaningful action, organizations have the power to strengthen employee engagement and safety while reducing the risk of complaints, human rights allegations, and financial losses,” said Lane Mercer, Equity and Inclusion Advisor, Edmonton Police Service. “With that power comes the opportunity and responsibility to authentically support your local 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.”

To watch the webinar: https://www.cpkn.ca/en/news/creating-and-fostering-a-safe-workplace-for-trans-and-gender-diverse-employees/