**
Montreal’s police chief, Fady Dagher, has openly addressed the pervasive sentiment of “shame” within the police department in response to serious allegations of racism, discrimination, and harassment. This admission came during a special meeting held at Montreal City Hall, where community members were given the opportunity to question Dagher directly. For over ten years, residents of Montreal North have raised concerns regarding the police’s treatment of racialised communities, culminating in a significant incident last June that intensified scrutiny of the force.
A Crisis of Trust
The catalyst for Dagher’s recent comments was the disbandment of a 16-member patrol unit in Montreal North following disturbing allegations against several officers. Reports emerged claiming that some members of the unit engaged in racist behaviours, including cutting the hair of racialised individuals and keeping it as mementos. Two officers were subsequently suspended in connection with these allegations, while a third faced suspension for an unrelated matter.
“That, for me, was shocking. Extremely disappointing, humiliating,” Dagher reflected in an interview with Global News. He acknowledged the existence of racial profiling and discrimination but expressed his astonishment at the severity of the officers’ actions, stating, “To be honest with you, I didn’t expect to see this in 2026.”
Community Frustration
The June incident is emblematic of a broader issue of mistrust that persists between law enforcement and the diverse communities within Montreal North. Erika Alneus, the leader of the official opposition at city hall, articulated the frustration felt by many: “People are sick and tired of being sick and tired.” This sentiment reflects a growing demand for accountability and change within the police force.
While attendees at the meeting recognised it as a crucial first step towards addressing these concerns, they also described the discussions as challenging. “It was a very difficult but necessary conversation,” remarked Fo Niemi, executive director of the Centre for Research-Action on Race, highlighting the importance of open dialogue in tackling these difficult issues. Dagher himself described the exchange as “very emotional.”
A Call for Systemic Change
Understanding the roots of the animosity between the police and the community is complex, with Dagher suggesting that factors such as extremism and white supremacy may play a role. “It’s a tough question because we are the mirror of society,” he said, emphasising the need for the police to reflect upon where they may have faltered in their duty.
The accountability, however, does not fall solely on the police. Niemi stressed that the entire city must be involved in the solution, stating, “The police can’t do it alone.” This perspective underscores the necessity for collective action among city officials, community leaders, and law enforcement to foster a more equitable and just environment for all citizens.
A Long Road Ahead
Dagher acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in eradicating ingrained practices such as random street checks, which, despite being forbidden, some officers still engage in. “It’s going to be difficult. It’s going to be long. But we have to stick together,” he asserted, estimating that it may take seven to ten years for the community to fully regain trust in the police force.
Calls for external oversight have also surfaced, with Fernanda Belton, executive director of the Legal Clinical Centre, pointing out the need for independent bodies like the Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI) to intervene. An internal investigation is currently ongoing, and Dagher confirmed that two cases involving three officers have been referred to Quebec’s prosecution service.
Why it Matters
The revelations surrounding the Montreal police serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles against systemic racism and discrimination within law enforcement. As communities demand accountability and change, the challenges facing the Montreal police force underscore the need for comprehensive reforms. The path to rebuilding trust is fraught with difficulties but is essential for fostering a safe and inclusive society. The events of June and their aftermath are not just local issues; they resonate within broader conversations about policing, equity, and justice across Canada and beyond.