RCMP mocked over summer program for high schoolers 'who identify as women'

On Monday, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced a new summer program for high schoolers considering a career in law enforcement, namely those who are in Grade 11 and "identify as women."

The RCMP's post quickly went viral, and was mocked for its insinuation that while the program was aimed at girls, anyone could apply by simply ticking a box indicating they identify as female.

 

"We're looking for high school students in grade 11 who identify as women," the post read. "If that's you and you’re curious about a career in public safety, we have a full week's worth of paid work for you! Registration closes in 2 weeks."

Beth Baisch simply responded "So men can apply."

"This is a joke, right?" one user replied. "Identify as women? Why not just ask for women?"

"So me and my penis are welcome as long as I pretend to be mentally ill?" another added.

Some went beyond questioning why the RCMP didn't just say "women" and suggested the program should be "open to all students."

According to the official program website, to be considered, applicants must be at least 16 years of age by the program's start date, July 8, 2024, meet the Federal Student Work Experience Program eligibility criteria, and, of course, identify as female—whatever that means.

"Submit your application and don't forget to self-declare as a woman to be considered!" the guidelines state. "Under the Employment equity self-declaration section of your application, answer 'yes' to Gender-Female."

The site goes on to encourage applicants to "self-identify" if they "belong to other Employment Equity groups," noting that "the Federal Government of Canada is dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce that represents the Canadian population we serve."

Earlier this year, it was revealed that the RCMP had begun funding sex changes for officers, covering "certain gender-affirming procedures not covered by provincial/territorial health care plans to help individuals with their gender affirmation journey."