For the first time in Canadian history, hundreds of women in policing gathered in one Vancouver conference room to support each other and discuss issues they’re facing.
The , held March 2-4, stemmed from an idea between a handful of women in law enforcement. It took two years of work for it to come together.
Vancouver Police Department Deputy Chief Fiona Wilson said the event’s theme was “widening the path” — talking not only about the trailblazers but ensuring there’s room for women coming into the profession. The goal: create an environment that’s more inclusive, supportive and empowering for all women in law enforcement.
British Columbia Association of Chiefs of Police and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police sponsored the three-day event. It was held at the Westin Bayshore where nearly 500 people from coast to coast attended.
“As a woman who’s been in law enforcement for the last almost 27 years, I have so often had the experience over the years of being the only woman in a room or on a team or in a district, and to walk into a room that is mostly women and have a common understanding and common goals with respect to our profession, has been really special,” said Wilson.
