Police Week Starts

Police Week Starts History

Police Week seeks to honour and remember the dedicated law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The objective is to recognize these brave individuals, offering gratitude and support to active-duty officers, as well as fostering and strengthening community relationships. Various activities, ceremonies, and memorial services are held throughout the week, with an emphasis on community engagement, public safety, and officer wellness.

In Canada, Police Week was first established in 1970 as a way to pay tribute to the fallen officers and show appreciation for those currently serving. Over the years, it has evolved into a nationwide opportunity for Canadians and law enforcement agencies to engage in dialogue about the role of police in the community, address concerns, and advance policing initiatives. The week-long event highlights and reinforces the importance of ongoing collaboration between the police and the public to ensure safe and healthy communities across the country.

Various police agencies observe Police Week by organizing diverse activities that may include open houses at local stations, school visits, community outreach programs, and family-friendly events. This allows the public to gain a better understanding of the diverse and demanding roles that officers assume every day, while also promoting trust and mutual respect. Police Week in Canada typically occurs in May, with the exact dates varying slightly between jurisdictions each year.

Top facts about Police Week Starts

• In 2024, Toronto’s Police Service budget was $1.18 billion.
  In 2023, the Toronto’s police budget was increased by nearly $50 million which would go towards the addition of 200 officers as well as funding programs which address youth violence in Canada.
• The theme for Police Week in 2023 was Committed to Serve.
• According to the CBC, in 2023 there were over 68,000 police officers in Canada.
• The thin blue line symbol, a black and white flag with a thin blue line running across, is used to express solidarity with police officers and to commemorate those injured or killed in the line of duty.
• Canadian police forces have been heavily focused on inclusivity and diversity. They are intent on hiring personnel representing different genders, ethnicities, languages, backgrounds and cultures to better reflect & serve Canada's vastly diverse communities.

In the News and Trending for Police Week Starts

Top things to do for Police Week

• Learn more about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) Musical Ride. Started in 1887, this demonstrative event consists of a full troop of 32 riders and their horses. It helps fundraise for local charities and non-profits while showcasing the public a piece of RCMP heritage and tradition.
• Visit the RCMP Heritage Centre in Regina, Saskatchewan. It is a law enforcement museum that tells the history of the RCMP. It consists of interactive exhibits with a variety of galleries. It is open nearly every day of the year.
• Watch videos in honor of Police Week.