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Winner
Detective Hugh Wong
Toronto Police Service
Detective Hugh Wong of the Toronto Police Service was nominated for his work with the Peacemaking Circle program through Peacebuilders International Inc. This is a non-profit organization that promotes, despite cultural differences, relationships based upon common values such as respect, sharing, compassion and accountability. The Circle model relies on participation from many community stakeholders, including the police, schools, social workers and family members. Circle keepers facilitate the process of respectful conversation. The use of a talking piece guides conversation in the Circle. The talking piece is an ancient form of communication for spiritual, political and communal life that is found throughout Aboriginal traditions. During these circles, participants are encouraged to listen to others, step into their shoes, share their experiences and work towards a common goal.
The Circle can also be used as a tool to make group decisions, brainstorm and build community. Through these shared personal experiences, which foster respect for societal values, young people learn to accept responsibility to the victim and community, and to understand the impact of their actions and reconciliation.
Detective Wong has used his discretion on a number of cases, holding discussions with the youth, his or her parents or guardians, and the victim in order to fully assess the suitability of each candidate before recommending them for the program.
The Circle program provides a community-based alternative to the court system. It helps to keep youths connected to their communities by including a variety of community stakeholders as part of the solution. Furthermore, it utilizes the concept of conferencing to assist in the decision-making process by bringing together those participants most harmed by the young person's actions in a forum which promotes open discussions, builds trust and supports effective dialogue into the future. Currently, the project is focusing on two of the more disadvantaged communities within the division, Regent Park and St. Jamestown in the hope of fostering interracial and ethno-cultural harmony and strengthening home, school, police and community partnerships.
Detective Wong has been a part of the steering committee from the inception of the organization and plays an active role in the Peacemaking Circle process. He dedicates a lot of time and effort to this initiative both on and off duty. Detective Wong feels that this program has made a significant measurable difference to the lives of at-risk youth for the better.
Contact Person:
Detective Hugh Wong
(416) 808-5105
