WPS Indigenous relations cruiser connects police, First Nations: officials
Posted June 30, 2026 6:03 pm.
While Winnipeg police’s new Indigenous community relations cruiser is certainly eye-catching, both police and Indigenous leaders say its purpose goes far beyond the artwork.
The cruiser – the first of three – will appear at community events, pow wows and cultural gatherings, rather than respond to emergency calls. It’s meant to spark conversations and strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities.
“The fact that we’re working so closely together on this initiative, I think it speaks volumes because we are working on many others,” said WPS Chief Gene Bowers.
Designed by Winnipeg police detective and Red River Métis artist Brian Hunter following months of consultation with Indigenous partners, the wrap features the Seven Sacred Teachings. Hunter hopes it inspires the next generation.
“Thinking what would my boys see, I thought what would get their eyes to light up and inspire something inside them and be a door to them talking about Indigenous knowledge and Indigenous teachings,” said Hunter.
“For me personally, this is a huge gesture. It shows that Chief Bowers is open to collaboration… and I think this is kind of a symbol of that.”
Those behind the project say this isn’t just a story about a police cruiser; it’s about rebuilding a relationship between Winnipeg police and First Nations people that, for years, has been tested by mistrust.
“There is a deep-rooted history and negative sort of connotation between the justice system and First Nations people,” said Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “But this is a step in the right direction. We have a chief of police that is willing to work with First Nations people.”
Bowers says those efforts also include creating more opportunities for officers to learn directly from Indigenous communities, not just in the classroom.
“I would like to have more training that actually gets our membership out into the community… because I think you take away something when you’re actually there and experiencing it yourself,” the police chief said.
