The design of the vehicle wrap, named “Keeper,” was crafted by local artist Aaron Plain. Photos courtesy Sarnia Police Service
The police service of Sarnia, Ont., recently partnered with Aamjiwnaang First Nation to unveil a special addition to their fleet: the Aamjiwnaang heritage cruiser, which features a unique vehicle wrap. This initiative in the southwestern Ontario city aims to enhance community engagement and celebrate Indigenous culture.
The design of the vehicle wrap, named “Keeper,” was crafted by local artist Aaron Plain, known for his landscape design and artistry. It features imagery, including warriors, women, and symbols representing Mother Earth. Notable elements of the vehicle wrap include the medicine wheel, symbolizing the interconnectedness of life’s cycles and cardinal directions, and an orange handprint honouring Indigenous children.
The approval of the design by both the Sarnia Police Service (SPS) and Aamjiwnaang First Nation chief and council underscores a collaborative effort to promote community representation in policing services. Police chief Derek Davis emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, “We are pleased to expand that program with the introduction of a specially designed Aamjiwnaang community police vehicle. Designed by a First Nation artist, this vehicle helps demonstrate our commitment to both respect and reflect the distinct identity of the Aamjiwnaang community in the provision of policing services.”
This initiative demonstrates how creative vehicle wraps can be effective in expressing culture and connecting with communities within law enforcement agencies. The SPS is one of two municipal services in Ontario with a mandate to provide effective policing services to the First Nation community. In May 2023, the SPS collaborated with the Aamjiwnaang First Nation to introduce the position of the Aamjiwnaang Community Officer.
