In a poignant tribute to her father’s wisdom and her own journey, Treena MacSween, a seasoned law enforcement officer with over 26 years of experience, has been appointed as the highest-ranked Black woman officer in Canada. Her ascent to the position of deputy chief in the London Police Service stands as a testament to her dedication and the values instilled by her immigrant parents from Jamaica.

Recalling her father’s nightly ritual of polishing his shoes, a symbolic act infused with sage advice, MacSween shared, “He would always say, ‘You have to look the part. There are those who will judge you because of the colour of your skin, so always dress to impress.'” These words, etched in her memory, propelled her forward in a career marked by resilience and determination.

Humbled by her appointment, MacSween emphasized the profound influence of her parents’ work ethic in shaping her success. “My success today was an idea dreamt up by my parents over 60 years ago when they decided to immigrate to this country,” she reflected.

Having served as a superintendent in the Hamilton Police Service, MacSween brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her strategic vision encompasses a commitment to bolstering community safety and optimizing police resources. Reflecting on her past roles, she noted the importance of exploring civilian alternatives to certain policing functions to enhance efficiency and alleviate frontline pressures.

Described as a “trailblazer” by her peers, MacSween’s appointment underscores a pivotal moment in the modernization of law enforcement in London. Chief Thai Truong’s ambitious agenda for transformative change aims to align the police service with the diverse needs of the community it serves.

The significance of MacSween’s appointment is underscored by the context of unprecedented investment in the London Police Service, signaling a commitment to advancing community trust, safety, and organizational integrity. As London Police Service Board Chair Ali Chahbar aptly stated, “The composition of our service needs to reflect the community,” marking a symbolic stride towards inclusivity and progress in law enforcement.

MacSween’s journey, rooted in the values of hard work and perseverance, serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring officers but to all who strive for equity and justice in society.

  London