Gene Bowers, the newly appointed police chief in Winnipeg, has committed to prioritizing reconciliation efforts, particularly with Indigenous communities. In a recent press conference, Bowers announced his intention to establish an Indigenous action circle aimed at consulting community members on pressing issues and improving police training.
“So that would be an Indigenous action circle that would sit with the chief,” Bowers stated, emphasizing the importance of giving Indigenous voices a seat at the table in discussions pertaining to training and community concerns. “We do a lot of Indigenous training but you know we can always improve what we’re doing. The Indigenous community will have a voice in ‘well what does that training look like?’”
However, Bowers was reticent when it came to addressing previous police decisions, particularly the controversial choice not to search the Prairie Green landfill for the remains of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran, two First Nations women whose families have been seeking answers for years. Bowers, who held the position of deputy chief during that decision, stated that he wants to speak with affected families first “out of respect” before offering a public comment. “I’ve spoken to one family so far and am scheduled to meet with others,” he added, hinting at the complexity of the situation.
The search for Harris and Myran is highlighted as successful, particularly when considering the political challenges that plagued the call for action throughout the process. According to the recent episode of the Truth & Politics podcast, the discussion surrounding the landfill search revealed significant political motivations influencing the outcomes. On March 20, 2025, the podcast delved into how these politics shaped the responses of authorities, reflecting the ongoing struggles in the justice system for Indigenous women.
Additionally, Bowers mentioned that the police force is actively working to identify another victim known as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, or Buffalo Woman. This woman was reportedly a victim of the same serial killer associated with Harris and Myran's deaths. “We’ve been working hard to identify Buffalo Woman,” he said, indicating the department's commitment to addressing past injustices and unsolved cases.
Changes are also on the horizon regarding police responses to individuals in mental health crises, a category in which previous interactions have resulted in civilian fatalities. Bowers promised a significant “realignment” in the force, aimed at improving responses and outcomes in these critical situations. Chief Bowers stated that tackling violent crime is also a priority for the police, underscoring a comprehensive approach to community safety.
The evolving role of the Winnipeg Police Service, particularly under Bowers' leadership, reflects a broader recognition of the need for inclusive dialogue and a commitment to rectifying past mistakes. As communities demand more from their law enforcement agencies, Bowers' initiatives present an opportunity for meaningful change in the relationship between the police and Indigenous peoples.
