Greater Sudbury Police to run with activist for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls

The Greater Sudbury Police Service has become the first police organization to accept a challenge from the Gwich'in ultra-marathoner known as 'Caribou Legs.'

Several officers, including Chief Paul Pedersen, will join Brad Firth on a five kilometre run on Tuesday to raise awareness for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. 

"Our strategy is about building the spirit of our young women and preventing violence, and I really think we can be part of the solution here," Pedersen said.

Firth started his cross-Canada journey on Mother's Day in Vancouver in memory of his sister.

"In honour of her and in honour of all women who are out there or who passed away or who have gone missing, I decided it was a good opportunity to raise the level of consciousness to all Canadians," Firth said.

Run-ins with police 

But Firth admits his trek has not been easy. 

He said he has faced ridicule and racism. 

He has been stopped by the RCMP, and said he has been handed jaywalking fines. 

"I'm not bothered by it," he said.

"I'm fully confident and I know how to deal with conflict resolution out here, and just carry the run in a peaceful, harmless way."

Lisa Osawamick, the Aboriginal women's violence prevention co-ordinator for Greater Sudbury Police, met Firth last year when he came through the city for his run to protect water. 

She calls it an honour to work with him again.

"For us to be a part and to accept an invitation to run with Caribou Legs and to help spread awareness, it's fantastic." she said.

Challenging other police services, PM

"I'm really excited," Firth said.

"I challenge other police forces in Ontario to jump on board this initiative."

Firth's run kicks off at Greater Sudbury Police headquarters on Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.

From there, he will make his way to Ottawa where he hopes Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will join his effort.