Celebrating Contribution of Latin American Communities

Toronto Police Service members were recognized for community work and contributions to the Latin American community at a gala event.

The Fuerza Latina Gala, held October 19 during Latin American Heritage Month, celebrated the culture and contributions of community members, including members the Latin American and Hispanic Internal Support Network (LAH-ISN).

LAH-ISN members strive to foster cultural awareness and competence within the police service, as well as support community outreach and strengthen bonds within Latin American communities in Toronto. Since 1996, the Latin American population in Canada has tripled.

One of the LAH-ISN’s most recent accomplishments was its collaboration with Toronto Metropolitan University and Fuerza Latina Community Services to support Spanish-language university programming. Members of the ISN volunteered their time as mentors, working with students to explore cultural competence in policing and creating spaces for dialogue on how diverse cultural backgrounds influence perceptions of law enforcement. These discussions help build a more inclusive understanding of policing in Toronto’s multicultural landscape and emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity in community relations.

Five members of the LAH-ISN were honoured for their contributions to the community at the gala for their leadership and dedication.

• Constable Jefferson Noguera, 11 Division
• Project Lead Jenniffer Quintero Arias, Strategy Management
• Shift Supervisor Ingrid Mora, Parking Enforcement
• Executive Officer Debbie Verduga, Corporate Services Command
• Constable Justin Serrano Alfaro, 51 Division

“Their recognition underscores the commitment of the ISN to not only represent the community in the work they do but to actively mentor, guide, and contribute to initiatives that enhance the well-being and success of Latin American and Hispanic residents in Toronto,” said LAH-ISN Co-Chair,  Sergeant Nelson Santizo.  “They have highlighted the importance of cultural competence in policing and played a key role in creating bridges between law enforcement and the community. This recognition extends to the entire ISN and its Executive Sponsors, whose collective efforts have strengthened the relationships between our Service and the diverse communities we serve.”

Anyone looking for more information about the Latin Americana and Hispanic Internal Suppport Network can email [email protected]