THUNDER BAY — The city's police services board has appointed 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate Jason Veltri to represent it on the City of Thunder Bay's Community Safety & Well-being Advisory Committee.
"We are pleased to have a strong community advocate in Mr. Veltri, who will support the board's efforts at transforming community safety and well-being through the important work of the committee," board chair Karen Machado announced Monday.
"The board is proud to have such a strong voice supporting the committee's vision of Thunder Bay being a safe, healthy and connected community where everyone is valued and has opportunities to thrive."
Veltri is the founder and president of Rainbow Collective, an inclusive home for the gender and sexual diversity communities of Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario.
He also chairs the city's Anti-Racism and Equity Advisory Committee.
"Our work to reshape, rebuild and reaffirm community policing in Thunder Bay goes beyond its board members; it drives to the heart of the community and the people who raise their hands to help," Veltri said.
"I am deeply humbled and honoured to have been appointed by the police services board to ensure its voice is included in the very important work building up community safety and well-being."
His appointment is valid until November 2026.
The Community Safety & Well-being Advisory Committee includes representatives from diverse sectors including First Nations, Indigenous organizations, police, service providers in the areas of health and mental health, education, community and social services, as well as children and youth services.
