Tina Pelletier, PAGC Communications

Leaders from the Prince Albert Grand Council traveled to Chinle, Arizona to learn about the policing model used by the Navajo Tribal Police.

The trip was a recommendation in the final report of PAGC’s 2019 First Nations Policing and Indigenous Justice Symposium. During the visit, members of the PAGC met with Navajo Tribal Police leaders and toured several departments of the Navajo Nation including the police department, corrections department, and the Judicial District court. The policing model used by the Navajo is based on the practices of Indigenous sovereignty, and PAGC Vice Chief Joseph Tsannie says they will be developing their own policing systems with the knowledge and insight gained from the trip.

Last year, PAGC signed an agreement with the provincial and federal government to explore new ways to improve safety in First Nations communities. A Public Safety Implementation Team was created, and they will be assessing the 28 First Nations’ interest in self-administered policing starting on Monday. The process is expected to take up to two years before a final report can be created.