Rideau Hall, Thursday, May 22, 2008

We have come here today to honour 60 members of Canada’s police services who are about to join the ranks of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces.

I am delighted to see so many of you here, but this occasion also brings back memories for me that I would like to share with you now.

I grew up under the yoke of a ruthless dictatorship, where the police came to symbolize the brutal repression of the people.

My family and I left behind a regime of terror to begin our lives again in Canada, safe from violence and oppression.

I remember arriving at the airport, still just a child.

We had to go through screening, customs, past immigration officers. For us, anyone in uniform was a threat, and we were on the alert, not knowing what would happen next.

When our passports were stamped and we walked through the doors, we could not believe it. Freedom at last!

But still, for years, we jumped whenever we heard a police siren. That sound sparked an instinctive fear in us. Fear that they were coming to get us. Fear that we would never again see our loved ones. Fear of being tortured, killed.

But those were ghosts from the past. Over time, that fear faded away, to be replaced by a feeling of security.

Unfortunately, that same sense of security and the freedom that we enjoy in this country are virtually unknown to most people in the world.

And even in an open and peaceful society like ours, where the rule of law prevails, we cannot take them for granted. We must remain vigilant.

Because no one is safe from violence and crime.

I know this because I spent years helping families struggling with domestic violence.

But I also learned from that experience that we can count on you, the members of the police services, to protect and defend our communities and our families.

That we can count on you to ensure that the freedom of some does not infringe upon the freedom of others.

That we can count on you to ensure that justice is carried out effectively and transparently.

That we can count on you to help those in need.

That we can count on you to support the development of our communities in countless ways.

That we can count on you to educate the public, to raise public awareness of our rights and responsibilities.

Every aspect of our lives depends on this.

You play a crucial role.

One that is especially important as our society becomes increasingly complex and continues to face new and changing realities.

Realities that demand new ways of doing, of seeing, of thinking.

Realities that put your ability to adapt to the test.

Consider, for example, cybercrime, threats to our national security, the sophistication of organized crime, the ramifications of which can now be felt worldwide.

Consider also the increasing diversity in our population, particularly in our cities, and the challenges this can bring.

You are called upon to react on the spot, in often perilous situations. It is important—no, it is essential—that you have a clear understanding of the citizens and communities you serve, an understanding that extends beyond prejudice and preconceived ideas.

I know that Canada’s police services address these issues perceptively, diligently, fairly and creatively. That they endeavour to be a true reflection of the society in which they work to be better able to meet its needs.

It is not surprising that our police forces remain models of excellence and that they are called upon to train police officers in many other countries, including Haiti, where they are working to create a safer environment.

You have made it your duty to maintain the highest standards of integrity and efficiency, much to your credit.

Those of you gathered here today embody that high level of professionalism that has earned Canada’s police services its reputation.

You have demonstrated exceptional merit throughout your careers, going well beyond what was expected of you.

The recognition you are receiving today, your investiture into the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, is a testament of our appreciation.

On behalf of your fellow citizens, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done for us. More than a career, your work is a calling.

Thank you, so very much.