Chat Connects with French Community

French conversation and laughter filled the Toronto Police Museum at Headquarters in celebration of International Francophonie Day as community gathered with police officers.

The event provided a relaxed setting where officers and residents can connect through conversation.

“We call it: On jase avec la police, which means we chat with the police,” said French Liaison Officer Constable Tina Trépanier. “It's an informal, easy, approachable way for police and community members to get together in a relaxed environment to just talk to one another.”

Toronto is home to more than 200,000 people who speak French as a first or second language, representing communities from 62 countries around the world.

For Serge Paul, a volunteer and co-chair of the French Consultative Committee, said the gathering builds connections between police officers and community members.

“It builds human relationships,” he said. “Not officer and civilian, but relationships between human beings. Small steps, but small steps help create stronger roots in the community.”

Officers from divisions across the city attended the event, speaking with residents and reminding members of the francophone community that French-language services are available through the Service, including when calling 9-1-1.

“Getting to know members of the community is refreshing and rewarding,” said Inspector Roger Desrochers. “Events like this are rejuvenating. They remind you who you’re working for.”

Chief Superintendent Shannon Dawson said the event also helps strengthen trust between the Service and the communities it serves.

“It’s a great opportunity to engage with the community,” she said. “By welcoming the francophone community into our space, we can share more about policing and our culture while building bridges with people we may not have met otherwise.”

The gathering served as a reminder that sometimes the strongest community connections begin with a simple conversation.