Catherine Galliford, a prominent former spokesperson for the RCMP, has passed away after battling cancer. Known for her role as the public face of the force, Galliford made headlines when she took legal action against the Mounties, citing years of sexual harassment that she alleged began when she applied to join the RCMP in 1990.
Her decision to speak out about her experiences not only shed light on the issue of harassment within the national police force but also encouraged other female officers to come forward with their own stories of abuse. This collective action led to a lawsuit that highlighted a troubling culture of misconduct that spanned nearly two decades within the RCMP.
In response to the allegations, the RCMP pledged to investigate both Galliford’s claims and the broader issue of harassment within the organization. This eventually culminated in a significant cash settlement of over $100 million in 2019, with subsequent agreements reached for women in non-police roles.
Galliford also pursued and settled a civil suit against several individuals, including RCMP officers, a physician, and government entities, alleging sexual assault, harassment, and professional misconduct throughout her career. Despite facing challenges and fears of career repercussions, Galliford’s courage in speaking out paved the way for accountability and justice.
Janet Merlo, another former Mountie who shared a similar experience of harassment within the RCMP, expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in addressing systemic issues, highlighting the ongoing need for change.
Catherine Galliford’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against harassment and injustice, and her impact continues to resonate within the law enforcement community.