Overview

• Don MacLean was officially sworn in as Halifax's first permanent Black chief of police, marking a significant milestone for the African Nova Scotian
• MacLean has been with the Halifax police force for 31 years and served as acting chief since September 2023.
• He acknowledges past strained relations between the police and Black communities and aims to inspire future African Nova Scotian leaders.
• MacLean's priorities include enhancing public safety, police wellness, and strengthening community relationships.
• The appointment follows a recent apology from Nova Scotia's RCMP for the banned practice of street checks, which disproportionately affected Black citizens.