The Society is working on a number of projects into 2019, including having the Memorial Ribbon formally endorsed by the Federal Government as the official symbol of mourning when an officer dies in the line of duty. We have received a Letter of Endorsement from the Presidents of the CACP, CPA, and the CPPOM acknowledging the Memorial Ribbon as the official symbol for these agencies. The Society has met with some Members of Parliament and we have begun the process of having an MP put forward a Private Members Bill in the House of Commons to formally recognize the Ribbon. We hope to get this done in the next sitting in Ottawa.
Another critical project that we are working on is a mental health initiative for First Responders. We tragically lose more and more peace officers to Operational Stress Injuries (PTSD) every year, and the Society is looking at how we can make it easier for officers and their families to get support before it is to late. We have begun speaking to many mental health support agencies and other professionals in an effort to come up with easier accesses to solutions.
Additionally, the Society has also started a committee to look at building a National Memorial Museum, likely a long-term project.
Finally, we are in the process of putting together our First Police and Peace Officers’ Golf Fundraiser, which will include a round of golf, dinner, and auctions. The fundraiser is set for August 15 at Newlands Golf and Country Club (https://www.newlandsgolf.com/), so put that date aside so you can participate! More information on the fundraiser will be coming out shortly.