TPS
launches Newcomer Outreach Program
Adjusting
to a new land is more than learning a new language.
It
is also learning what is and is not accepted in a person’s new
surroundings.
The
Toronto Police Service recently launched its Newcomer Outreach Program,
which is designed to help new immigrants learn about the role police play
in Canadian society, and about services provided by the Service. The
program outlines rights and responsibilities under Canadian law.
The
Service has developed an information pamphlet and video called “A Guide
to Police Practices in Toronto,” that will be distributed through our
partners in the community. They contain information about the rights and
responsibilities of both community members and the police.
The topics covered include:
- Contacting the police,
- 9-1-1 is an emergency in any language,
- How do I become a police officer?
- What do I do when police come to my home?
- What if someone doesn’t speak or understand English?
- Do I have to answer the officer’s questions or identify myself?
- What are my rights if I am arrested?
- When can a police officer search me?
- What should I do when an officer approaches me on the street?
- What should I do when an officer stops me while I’m driving?
These resources were created after the Service met with organizations that
serve the newcomer community in Toronto. These meetings were held with the
City of Toronto Strategic and Corporate Policy/Healthy City Office.
The Newcomer Outreach Program is part of the Toronto Police Service’s
plan to communicate with members of all of Toronto’s diverse
communities. For copies of the pamphlet or for further information, please
contact the Community Mobilization Unit at 416-808-7070 or got to our
website, www.torontopolice.on.ca,
and click the Newcomer Outreach icon below the Community Safety section.
