Const. Sandra Morse with her parents, Ron and Donna Morse. She is holding a photo of her grandfather, Robert Burns.
To celebrate 50 years of women in the RCMP, Coquitlam RCMP will be sharing stories from some of the women working within the local communities.
On Sept. 16, 1974, 32 women from across Canada took the oath to become police officers with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police beginning their training on Sept. 18 and 19. Since then, thousands of women have followed, shaping the RCMP into what it is today.
Third-generation Mountie
On Sept. 18, 2017, Const. Sandra Morse began her training at Depot as one of 13 women within her troop. The first day of police training is memorable for any RCMP Mountie as it marks the beginning of their career. But for Constable Morse, it meant a little bit more.
“It means a lot to start on that day, as it’s my grandpa’s birthday”, said Constable Sandra Morse. “But it’s also the same day that my mom started Depot as part of the first female troop in 1974.”
Const. Morse knew from early on that she wanted a career in law enforcement.
She started her career as a Telecommunications Dispatcher, working at Surrey RCMP and Burnaby RCMP. After her mom’s suggestion, she applied to become a police officer in 2010. Unfortunately, due to a car accident, her RCMP application was put on hold.
Once she recovered, Const. Morse reapplied and was posted to General Duty at the Coquitlam RCMP Detachment.
“If someone is thinking about joining the RCMP, my advice for them is ‘To go for it and don’t give up’,” said Constable Sandra Morse. “Potential applicants should think about embracing their individual skills and what they can bring to the job.”
Policing has changed a lot in the 50 years since the first female officers joined. The glass ceiling has been broken as woman have occupied every position and rank within the RCMP.
“I’m in complete astonishment of the changes within policing since my mom joined,” said Constable Morse. “I don’t see gender being an issue in my career, which makes me incredibly proud. If you are the most suitable and qualified for the job, then you should have the job.”
Const. Morse currently works in the Community Response Team (CRT). This unit engages with the public and businesses through outreach events and presentations, as well as participating in local targeted patrols on foot, bicycle and police cars.
This last October, Constable Morse organized a Halloween Trick or Treat party, which brought together first responders and local agencies for a family-friendly community event. The event saw hundreds of attendees dressed in Halloween costumes collect candy and treats while engaging with Police, Fire, Search and Rescue and Bylaw officers.
“I really love attending these events, as it provides an organic opportunity to engage with the public,” added Constable Morse. “There is no better feeling than talking to a child, giving them a sticker and seeing their whole face light up. It really reminds me of the importance of those everyday interactions.”
