SERVING FIRST NATIONS
SERVING FIRST NATIONS
Like the unit it represents, the unique appearance of Integrated First Nations Unit police vehicles symbolizes collaboration and integration. Along with crests of the RCMP and West Vancouver Police, the vehicles bear a logo inspired by revered images of the First Nations served by IFNU.
Created by renowned Squamish Nation artist Xwalacktun the logo is a combination of Wolf on the left and a Thunderbird on the right. The Wolf is the artistic symbol of the Səlilwətaɬ Tsleil Waututh Nation and represents the traditional importance of family to First Nations.
The Thunderbird is the artistic symbol of the Skwxwu7mesh Uxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and represents belief in a greater force than humans looking down from above to watch over the safety of all people.
The First Nations We Serve
On July 23rd 1923, 16 Squamish speaking tribes amalgamated to form Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). There are currently 3,600 official members of the Band, of which approximately 60 percent live on Squamish Nation reserves in West Vancouver, North Vancouver and Squamish.
West Vancouver Police proudly patrol and protect Xwemelch’stn – Capilano, the largest community of the Skwxwú7mesh Stelmexw (People).
The Tsleil Waututh First Nation has its largest residential community in North Vancouver along the shores of Burrard Inlet. The Tsleil Waututh Nation and Squamish First Nation celebrate many close family and personal connections.
On February 08, 2008, after many years of relationship building initiatives, the Squamish Nation, Tsleil Waututh Nation, West Vancouver Police and the RCMP in North Vancouver & Squamish agreed to a new partnership creating the Integrated First Nations Unit (IFNU).
Based on the North Shore, the Unit is formed of officers from West Vancouver Police and the RCMP, focused on providing enhanced policing services that are culturally sensitive and responsive to the First Nations.
IFNU officers assist Patrol and General Duty members in emergency responses, while also consulting extensively with First Nations Communities and members to assist with investigations.
They meet regularly with Chiefs and Council and staff from Social Development, Community Operations and all aspects of the First Nations governance and operations to review and address community concerns and priorities identified in the Integrated First Nations Policing Agreement.
They also work hard to provide all members of the community with help and information aimed at promoting better understanding and more positive interactions between Police and First Nations.
