Richmond RCMP is proud to continue celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of women joining the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This milestone represents a significant achievement in the history of diversity and inclusion within the RCMP. As part of this commemoration, we are featuring a series of profiles of RCMP members serving the Richmond detachment, of diverse ranks, roles, and backgrounds.
Honouring the Trailblazers: Troop 17
On Sept. 16, 1974, 32 women from across Canada made history as the first female officers sworn into the RCMP, forming Troop 17. This ground-breaking event paved the way for gender equality within national law enforcement. Known for their resilience and determination, the women of Troop 17 faced unique challenges and overcame numerous barriers to set a precedent for future generations. Their contributions have significantly shaped the RCMP, with women now making up approximately 22 per cent of RCMP officers.
Const. Laurie Chow: A story of resilience and community engagement
Const. Laurie Chow is currently seconded to the Youth Section at the Richmond RCMP Detachment, and has been an RCMP officer for more than five years. Her role as a Youth Liaison Officer in Richmond involves responding to calls for service in the community, particularly those related to youth mental health, bullying and incidents in schools. Working closely with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), social workers, probation officers and the Restorative Justice Process under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, Chow plays a crucial role in supporting at-risk youth and fostering a safe and inclusive environment for them. Prior to her career with the RCMP, Chow worked for the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and volunteered with the Langley RCMP.
What inspired you to join the RCMP?
I wouldn’t say I was notably inspired, but rather my life experiences guided me toward a career in policing. When I thought of who the police were—it has always been the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the iconic Red Serge, and seeing photos of how proud the members stand to serve our country.
In my early 20s, my younger brother was killed while he was a passenger in motor vehicle. I remember the RCMP officer who came to parents’ house that rainy, dark night. The yellow stripe of his forage cap could be seen through the window above the door. As horrific as the circumstance was, the officer was a tremendous comfort and support to my family. Bad things happen in life, and if I can be that support in someone’s time of crisis—I will do that.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
My journey to becoming an RCMP officer began in July 2015 when I first attended Depot. Leaving my husband and our three children at home, then ages 9, 11 and 13, I was ready to take on the challenge. However, during the PARE at Depot, I sustained an ACL injury that required surgery, forcing me to return home. For 18 months, I recovered and focused on getting back in shape. One day, my 11-year-old son asked me when I would go back. When I told him that I wasn’t planning on it, he questioned why I would give up on my dream now that I am healed. His words motivated me, and I wanted to set a positive example for my children—to show them that even if you face setbacks, you can achieve your goals if you work hard and believe in yourself. I started re-training in the spring of 2018 and in November of 2018, completed my training and graduated from Depot. My children have witnessed the challenges firsthand, and while I cannot say that it did not affect them negatively at times, I hope they can now admire my perseverance to achieve my goals.
Can you share a memorable experience from your time with the RCMP?
Crossing the finish line of the eight-kilometre run at RCMP Depot in 46 minutes, with a rehabilitated knee, was a personal proud moment for me. As I crossed the finish line, the Depot fitness instructor said, ‘Good job, CHOW,’ and then instructed me to run back to retrieve the remaining eight cadets.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career with the RCMP?
I was over 40 when I first went to Depot, and even though I appreciate my own life experience and believe that it has served me well, my advice to young women would be to join in your early to mid-20s. Establish your policing career and enjoy the vast range of opportunities that are unique to the RCMP. Leaving a partner and young children to attend Depot can be very emotionally difficult for everyone involved, but if you are like me and joining later, have your support system in place and have a plan. Depot is physical and can be more challenging as you get older, but if you believe in yourself, are dedicated to your training, and have the ‘Never Give Up’ attitude—you can do it! And finally, stand proud wearing that Serge!
Celebrating history and inspiring the future
Richmond RCMP’s celebration of the 50th anniversary of women in the RCMP aims to honour the trailblazing women who are shaping our community with their dedication and service. Through a series of media features, we will highlight the diverse roles and background of women officers within our detachment, showcasing their unique contributions to public safety. We invite the community to join us in celebrating the historic milestone by following us on social media and our newsroom for stories and updates. Engage with the women officers who continue to make Richmond a safe and vibrant community.
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