The Lighting the Fire Within Project is being led by the United Chiefs and Councils of Manitoulin Anishinaabe Police and will focus on domestic violence.
UCCM Police Chief Faron Whiteeye says it’s a four-year project, which is designed to build stronger First Nation communities while reducing the risk factors associated with domestic violence.
He says there are three key targets: to develop programming for youth to develop and foster a trusting relationship with the police while promoting healthy relationships; develop trauma and culturally responsive approaches to victims of domestic violence and to deliver a culturally responsive pre-charge diversion program to perpetrators of non-criminal code domestic disputes.
He says the project is funded through Women and Gender Equality – Canada and is the first project of its kind for any police service in the country.
Whiteeye adds they are recruiting a new member who will help lead the project and are also forming an advisory committee for feedback from the larger community.
An initial report is expected by late fall.