Vernon RCMP working with Indigenous partners

Photo: RCMP

For Michael Ochoa, being on a good path in life has not come easy.

“It hasn’t always been this way. In my early life, I was caught up in my addiction and trauma that had me on a less-productive path,” said Ochoa. “Along with my addictions, I was also homeless for a short period. While I was not a prolific criminal, I did indulge in less than savoury actions in my addiction, so I had these stereotypical thoughts about all RCMP officers.”

Now, in his role as the Youth Justice Worker for the Okanagan Indian Band, Ochoa and the OKIB Public Safety Team, along with RCMP Indigenous Policing Services members, are collaborating to provide a culturally sensitive response to issues facing youth in the community.

“When I got the opportunity to work with our Indigenous Police Officer on reserve, let’s say I was a bit hesitant at first. This changed for me when I met our new IPS Const. Kyle Camaulsh,” said Ochoa. “I've had the opportunity to work on projects such as the Youth Leadership Council and seeing his compassion, empathy and concern for our members, has given me a new outlook on policing in Canada. While we have a long way to go in healing relations with the RCMP, having officers like Kyle embracing our community will go a long way in helping bring about this type of reconciliation between the Indigenous population and the RCMP."

For Camalush, the experience has been equally rewarding.

"It has been a privilege to work alongside and collaborate with Michael and the Public Safety Team. In his willingness to share his life story and in the passion he exemplifies in his work, Michael has helped so many within his Community. It is apparent that many within and outside of the Okanagan Nation look up to him as a role model, both professionally and personally. I am very much looking forward to our continued work together,” said Camalush.

Today is National Indigenous People’s Day, and the Vernon RCMP want to recognize one of the many ways RCMP officers and their Indigenous partners are working to build safe and healthy communities.