Calgary police’s readiness to remove controversial thin blue line still on hiatus

The deadline for Calgary police officers to remove thin blue line patches from their uniforms has come and gone with no indication of just how many have complied.

While it couldn’t provide any feedback on compliance, in a statement, the Calgary Police Service said, “members who continue to wear the patch in defiance of the chief’s direction will face progressive discipline with potential outcomes ranging from counselling all the way to termination.”

The Calgary Police Association says the patch honours those who have given their lives in the line of duty, while also supporting those who continue to serve.

The Calgary Police Commission argued the controversial symbol should be removed because of its troublesome history tied to division, colonialism and racism.

Read More:

• Calgary police told to remove thin blue line patches by end of May: Police Commission

• Calgary police officers wearing ‘thin blue line’ patch won’t be disciplined for now: CPS

• Calgary Police union distributes thin blue line patches, despite commission’s directive

The commission says discussions are ongoing as to whether some form of a memorial pin can be authorized for wear on dress uniforms during ceremonies honouring those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The police association has yet to respond to a request for a statement about compliance.

–With files from Tim Parent, Jonathan Muma and Dan Carson