Rhonda Blackmore, previously the commanding officer of the RCMP F Division in Saskatchewan, has recently transitioned to the role of Assistant Commissioner of Indigenous Supports and Services in Ottawa. This move, announced on June 27, 2025, surprised many within the RCMP and broader community, especially following her unexpected removal from her previous position. Blackmore’s reassignment to Ottawa marks a significant shift in her career and raises questions about the circumstances surrounding her departure from the F Division.
As a pioneering figure in Saskatchewan, Blackmore had focused on improving relationships between the RCMP and Indigenous communities. This initiative was particularly important given the historical tensions that have existed between law enforcement and Indigenous peoples in Canada. Her leadership was characterized by efforts to foster understanding, trust, and collaboration, underscoring the need for the RCMP to address past grievances while moving toward a more inclusive future.
The announcement of her removal has generated considerable discussion, particularly among Indigenous leaders and community members. Bobby Cameron, Chief of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN), expressed his astonishment regarding Blackmore’s exit, highlighting concerns over the anonymous complaints thought to have influenced the decision. This situation illustrates the complexities within leadership roles in law enforcement, where challenges and controversies can significantly impact careers.
The nature of the complaints leading to Blackmore’s dismissal remains unclear, igniting speculation and concern about the accountability and transparency of the RCMP. This development draws attention to the internal processes within the organization, especially regarding how leadership and reputational issues are addressed. There is a growing demand from communities for greater scrutiny of how such decisions are made, reflecting broader societal expectations for accountability in policing.
Blackmore’s new role in Ottawa is seen as an opportunity to further her commitment to supporting Indigenous communities on a national scale. As Assistant Commissioner of Indigenous Supports and Services, she will have the platform to influence policies and practices that resonate with her previous work in Saskatchewan. Her experience and dedication may play a pivotal role in shaping the future relationship between the RCMP and Indigenous peoples across Canada.
Overall, Rhonda Blackmore’s unexpected career shift sheds light on the ongoing challenges within the RCMP as it navigates its relationship with Indigenous communities. Her case underscores the importance of leadership in fostering trust and reconciliation, while also raising critical questions about the enforcement agency’s internal dynamics and the implications of anonymous feedback in decision-making processes.
