 To protect and serve is a message that many police departments proudly display. Josh Peterson shows us how the Bemidji Police Department is using that message with hopes of reaching a larger audience. Did you gang? You know what? Not a mallard gang. Those words translated from the Ojibwe language means to protect and serve, and never have those words meant so much. Those words are now proudly displayed on all marked police vehicles in Bemidji, and while it's a simple gesture, the department hopes it will have a lasting impact. This initiative really is to build that community trust and that buy-in that we're here to serve everyone, and we treat everyone the same. Over the last few years, Bemidji police have dedicated time and resources to improve and grow community policing, saying that the latest addition to the department's vehicles is another step in the right direction. This is really just a starting point for some conversations so we can maybe generate some understanding between law enforcement and the community we serve as a whole. For members of the Bemidji Ojibwe project, having the Ojibwe language presented on law enforcement vehicles is something they are glad to see happen. This step that Chief Mastin has done is a symbol. It's kind of saying, hey, let's talk. Much of this group's grassroots effort has included Ojibwe's signage at many businesses and area schools. The hope is that the Ojibwe language will help further promote the culture and bring people together. The idea behind the symbolism of the language project is that it allows that conversation to happen. In Bemidji, Josh Peterson, Lakeland News. The special decals appear on all marked police department vehicles. Bemidji police will be handing out magnets with the Ojibwe slogan at the Bemidji JC's home sport and travel show in April. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.