Services in Mississauga, Brampton negate need for anti-black racism panel on Peel Police Services Board: report

The Peel Police Services Board (PPSB) does not need an anti-black racism advisory panel because similar outreach already occurs in Mississauga and Brampton, concludes a new report.

Instead, the report suggests, the PPSB should create a diversity and inclusion committee.

The recommendations will go before the PPSB at its next meeting.

The PPSB is the local civilian body that governs the Peel Regional Police.

In the report, it concludes that because of existing anti-black and anti-racism work currently underway by the police department, the Region of Peel and both Mississauga and Brampton “there does not appear to be a gap that would be filled by establishing a standalone Peel Police Services Board anti-black or anti-racism advisory panel.”

It also points out that most police boards across Ontario don’t have such committees.

However, the report suggests a broader-based diversity committee may prove to be more effective. “This approach would provide the Board a more comprehensive view of Peel’s dynamic and diverse community to confidently ensure adequate and effective policing in Peel,” the report says.

The PPSB will consider the option at its next meeting.

The report was commissioned following a deputation to the PPSB earlier this year that called for more community input on the board concerning anti-black racism.