The New Brunswick RCMP is pleased to announce that Kevin Martin-Savoie from Esgenoôpetitj First Nation, and Emilie Clair from Elsipogtog First Nation, both recently graduated from the 2023 Indigenous Pre-Cadet Training Program (IPTP).
The IPTP offers Canadian indigenous people between the ages of 19 and 29 an introduction to training with the RCMP, and an opportunity to participate in a modified three-week experience at the academy in Regina, Saskatchewan. Since the program's launch in 1994, many participants have gone on to become RCMP officers, civilian members and public service employees.
Kevin Martin-Savoie was curious, but did not have any intentions of working in policing before entering the program. His experience with the IPTP not only encouraged him to join the RCMP, but also gave him a desire to better understand his Mi'kmaq culture. Through many activities such as raising a Tipi in the Plains Cree tradition and a blanket exercise, he realized the impact of indigenous culture and the way of life. He also found his exposure to other indigenous traditions and languages was very inspiring. He was encouraged by what he learned the RCMP is doing to help heal and understand indigenous culture, especially in New Brunswick. "When non-indigenous RCMP members in New Brunswick take part in our ceremonies and getting to know our communities, it shows me how far the RCMP has come."
When Emilie Clair was at Depot, the largest troop was the Indigenous Pre-Cadet troop, which made her very proud to see. She had such an amazing experience that she encourages any Canadian indigenous person, who is interested in policing, to apply to the IPTP program. As a result of her time at Depot, she decided to submit her application to become a member of the RCMP. "Being in this program alongside other indigenous people from all over Canada was a very surreal feeling, it also made me very proud to see the positive changes that we are making and will continue to make for the future."
If you are interested in learning more about the indigenous pre-cadet training program, please visit our website: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/indigenous-pre-cadet-training-program