Police fly flag for compassion in community
GEELONG region police are flying the rainbow flag and warning any attempts to incite hatred or violence based on sexuality and gender identity will not be tolerated.
Waurn Ponds Acting Senior Sergeant Jane Boyd raised the rainbow flag at the police station in August to show support for members of the community who were feeling the “immense pressure” of the marriage equality survey.
“We are supporting the message as police that you have the right to be proud of who you are — your sexuality or gender identity does not change this,” Sen-Sgt Boyd said.
While Geelong people overwhelmingly voted in favour of marriage equality, police have warned that any discriminatory or hatefuelled behaviour based on gender identity will not be tolerated.
“Victoria Police wants you to know that everyone has the right to feel safe in our community,” a spokesman said.
Inspector Craig Darlow said the Geelong police have worked closely with LGBTI communities to enhance and improve relationships to increase access to policing services for LGBTI Victorians.
“We are committed to ensuring that every LGBTI person has a positive experience of our organisation, whether they approach us for help, see us in the street, work within our ranks or aspire to do so,” Insp Darlow said.
Geelong police have LGBTI liaison officers based at stations including Waurn Ponds and Bellarine.