The First Black Police Chief in Canada’s History is Jamaican

Devon Clunis was born in Harmony Vale in the garden parish of St Ann  and moved to Canada at the tender  age of twelve.

He is one of many Jamaican nationals who have migrated and are achieving phenomenal feats.

His prestigious appointment as Winnipeg’s police chief in  November 2012 made him the first black man to earn the coveted position in Canada’s history.

What makes his achievement so remarkable is why he decided to become a police officer.

When he applied  to be a Winnipeg cop in 1987, his main objective was to break the stereotype that police cruisers’ backseats are reserved for Blacks.

He also thought the job would help him become a role model for his young nephews.  Clunis was elated to be accepted, but never in his wildest dreams did he expect to rise to the top of the service and make history as Canada’s first Black police chief.

“I am passionate about the City of Winnipeg and over the course of my career, I have been given great opportunities to help lead the organization…I applied for the chief position because I thought it was really important that the person taking over should have a great understanding of our organization and the city instead of just simply wanting to be chief…Every position for which I have applied was done simply because I felt there was a need to serve the organization and our citizens.”

See video with Chief Clunis taking the Oath of Office below:

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