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Annual moose hunt program pairs Sudbury police with Indigenous youth

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The Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) launched its fourth annual Mooz Akinonmaaget Maa Aki mentorship program on Wednesday.

The 2024 participants in Greater Sudbury annual Mooz Akinonmaaget Maa Aki program gathered on July 3, 2024 to kick-off the program. (Greater Sudbury Police Service/X)

The Moose Hunt program is led by Const. Darrell Rivers, GSPS Indigenous Liaison Officer, this initiative aims to assist in building positive relationships between local youth and Sudbury police officers based on mutual respect, cultural awareness and inclusivity.

“Each youth is paired with a GSPS officer and agency mentor for a moose hunt which will take place over the course of a weekend in September,” said police in a news release.

“Based on traditional Anishnawbek values through the Seven Grandfather Teachings, the program includes activities such as hunting education, firearms safety, first aid, tactical demonstrations, the moose hunt and teachings on gratitude and giving thanks.”

Members of the Greater Sudbury Police Service participating in the 4th annual Mooz Akinonmaaget Maa Aki mentorship. (Greater Sudbury Police Service/X)

The youth participants forge their own pathway to wellness through self-directed wellness strategies and goal-setting under the support of Indigenous Elders, mentors and GSPS members.

“Through spending quality time together in nature, the officers and youth will be given the opportunity to learn from one another about their culture and life perspectives, fostering inclusivity and a sense of mutual respect,” said police.

Activities will take place throughout the summer culminating with the Moose Hunt in September.

The Sudbury program began in 2021 and is designed to promote the spiritual, physical, emotional and mental well-being of youth.

“Our youth are the leaders of today and tomorrow. It’s important to lift them up and create healthy atmospheres and experiences for them to gain confidence, life skills and teamwork,” said police.

“We thank the youth for their courage to participate in this program.”

The participants in the 4th annual Mooz Akinonmaaget Maa Aki program in Greater Sudbury. (Greater Sudbury Police Serivce/X)

The Mooz Akinonmaaget Maa Aki program is a partnership between Niijaansinaanik Child and Family Services, Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services, Kina Gbezhgomi Child & Family Services, Children’s Aid Society, Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre, Restorative Justice Sudbury and the Crown’s Office.

“GSPS is committed to working collaboratively with Indigenous Peoples and community partners in recognizing truths and continuing towards meaningful change,” said police.

“We know that there is much work to be done and that this program is just one small step in the right direction.”

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