Men and women in purple: Southern Highlands police support diversity and inclusion

The team is participating in Wear It Purple day, an awareness day to support young people in the LGBTI community.

Southern Highlands Police Officer-in-Charge Inspector John Klepczarek said it was important for police to show their support.

“Sexuality and gender diversity is definitely on show and accepted in city areas,” Inspector Klepczarek said.

“In regional and rural locations, there’s still a lot stereotyping and prejudice.

“That’s why it’s important that organisations such as NSW Police get right behind [Wear It Purple day], to say it’s okay and we’re here to support you.”

Inspector Klepczarek said the police force had come a long way in their support for the LGBTI community.

“Our past treatment of LGBTI community has been unacceptable. There are parts of it we regret,” he said.

“It is our actions in the past that have made some people hesitant to engage the police, but quite clearly issues of sexuality and gender are supported [today]. 

“The police have shown a big commitment to support the LGBTI community.”

Measures include the appointment of gay and lesbian liaison officers across the NSW Police force, which LGBTI people can ask for at police stations.

“We’re trying to make it as easy as possible and comfortable to speak with police. I want to stress that we are a LGBTI-friendly organisation now,” Inspector Klepczarek said.

“We’re keen to build relationships with the LGBTI community and to support their events and activities.”

Inspector Klepczarek encouraged the Southern Highlands community to get involved with Wear It Purple day.

“We’re encouraging the community to get behind this initiative and wear something purple today as you’re getting around in the community,” he said.

“Because that little bit of support could help to make someone feel good about themselves.”

Visit http://wearitpurple.org/ for more information about Wear It Purple day.