York Region: One of the most diverse in Canada
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A region where everyone belongs
York Region is one of the most diverse communities in Canada. Effective policing requires trust, understanding and representation that reflects the people we serve.
York Regional Police is committed to removing barriers, creating equitable opportunities and fostering a workplace where every member feels respected, valued and supported.
We will continue to engage with community partners and stakeholders, promote workplace initiatives that enhance inclusion and belonging, and hold ourselves accountable when called upon to eliminate racism and discrimination.
Our goal is to build a police service that reflects the communities we serve and is equipped to meet the needs of a diverse and growing region.
Inclusive Policing Action Plan
Our members and community partners have expressed that inclusion means respecting their distinct needs and viewpoints while recognizing the potential each person has to make meaningful contributions to York Regional Police.
The Inclusive Policing Action Plan (2023-2025) has been informed by the previous three-year action plan, consultations with internal and external stakeholders and an array of reports informed by our members, community partners and subject matter experts.
Racial Equity Strategy and Action Plan
York Regional Police recognizes the importance of addressing racism, discrimination and systemic barriers through meaningful action, accountability and ongoing community engagement.
Working in tandem with the York Regional Police Service Board and community partners, the service continues to advance initiatives focused on anti-racism, equitable policing and building community trust.
Addressing racism, building community trust
Our anti-racism work includes the development of a Racial Equity Strategy and Action Plan, which reflects our commitment to promoting racial equity for York Regional Police members and in the delivery of services to our communities.
While racial equity initiatives are not new at YRP, the Strategy and Action Plan are intended to consolidate efforts underway and create a high level of accountability. These documents hold up the voices of racialized community leaders, members of the police service and consultants who have provided guidance to us through reports and feedback.
Anti-racism initiatives at York Regional Police
Three key projects that have informed the Racial Equity Strategy and Action Plan: The Addressing Racism and Racial Discrimination in Policing training, the Equity Audit Project and the Race and Identity-Based Data Collection Framework all contribute to our overall racial equity goals and strategies.
Addressing Racism and Racial Discrimination in Pollicing training
Developed in partnership with academics and human rights experts from Foster & Associates (authors of the 2023 York Regional Police report on anti-Black racism), with consultation with York Regional Police members and community partners, this mandatory in-person full-day training program was launched in 2024. Designed to provide a baseline awareness for both sworn and civilian York Regional Police members, the training covers topics relating to systemic racism in policing, highlights key terms and concepts, and offers real policing scenarios for members to reflect on to address future interactions with their peers and the public.
Equity Audit Project
With the Diversity Institute from Toronto Metropolitan University, YRP engaged in an Equity Audit between 2024-2025 in order to review strengths, opportunities and recommended actions to make both employment and service delivery practices more equity-informed.
Race and Identity-Based Data Collection Framework
Delivered in early 2026, and designed by policing and racial justice expert Dr. Akwasi Owusu-Bempah (author of 2022 York Regional Police Service Board report on anti-Black racism), the Race and Identity-Based Data Collection Framework sets out the conditions for accountable, ethical and transparent collection, analysis and disclosure of race and other identity data relating to police interactions and YRP’s employment practices.
Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group
York Regional Police is proud to be a member and co-chair of the Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group (MDIG).
MDIG includes 20 member organizations that serve people who live, work, and visit here. Co-chaired with York Region, this community collaboration brings together municipalities, police services, hospitals, school boards, conservation authorities and agencies with a common commitment to welcoming and inclusive communities.
The Inclusion Charter for York Region was developed by MDIG. Members of MDIG are also working together to develop collective actions to enhance inclusion in the community.
