Hamilton police hire first equity, diversity and inclusion specialist

The Hamilton Police Service has hired it's first equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) specialist - a new position in the 2021 budget.

Paola Jani starts Feb. 1.

What is the role of an EDI specialist at Hamilton police?

Jani says she sees her job as facilitating the development and implementation of an equity, diversity and inclusion strategy."

The Hamilton Police Service does not have a specific EDI policy, but has several policies that touch on aspects of anti-racism and harassment in the workplace, police said. Part of Jani's work will be to develop a complete strategy for the service.

She will work with both internal and external partners, including talking with community stakeholders about needed changes.

It's at every level of the organization," she said, adding that this includes everything from hiring practices, to officer training.

Who is Paola Jani?

Jani is a lifelong Hamiltonian.

She has an undergraduate degree in political science, history and South Asian studies, a postgraduate diploma in public management, a master's degree in world heritage studies and multiple post graduate certificates.

Jani has worked in anti-racism, anti-oppression, diversity and gender-based violence, including at more than 19 non-profit organizations.

What made Jani want to take on this job?

I have a long and continuing passion for equity and social justice," Jani said.

This includes 20-years working in the non-profit sector and a family with a long history of advocacy. She has family members who have been activists, a social worker and a union leader in India - role models she says worked to remove barriers.

It sounds cheesy, but I wish to follow this work," she said.

Change is difficult, but possible, Jani said.

Recently we've all seen the results of a divided society," she said. I know and personally believe we could do better."

What are Jani's first priorities?

My priority ... I would really like to look at that road map and strategy," Jani said.

She wants to equip Hamilton police with the tools to emulate the behaviours of inclusion." That may include intensive training.

Jani said she's been called a change agent" before and believes in that power.

I'm really excited about the position," she said. Really thrilled to work with the Hamilton community."

Nicole O'Reilly is a Hamilton-based reporter covering crime and justice for The Spectator. Reach her via email: noreilly@thespec.com