On October 9, 2025, the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) joined the 30 Forward Pledge, an international initiative dedicated to building a more inclusive future that focuses on recruiting and retaining women.

Derived from the global 30x30 Pledge, which commits to increasing women's representation by 30% in organizations by 2030, the 30 Forward Pledge looks beyond the next five years. It is tailored for Canadian police services that value a fair and inclusive workforce that better reflects the communities they serve.

“Signing the 30 Forward Pledge is more than a commitment, it’s a reflection of our values,” said Mark Crowell, Chief of Police. “Participation in this initiative will undoubtedly result in a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive police service for our members and for the community.”

Currently, 24 per cent of WRPS sworn members identify as female. The Service’s Senior Leadership Team, which includes a combination of both sworn and civilian senior leaders, is made up of 49 members – 25 males and 24 females.

The 30 Forward Pledge not only reaffirms the Service’s commitment to recruiting more women but also aims to identify and address cultural or systemic barriers that could affect the promotion and retention of women within the organization.

The WRPS is one of several police organizations across Ontario committing to the 30 Forward Pledge.