It was all about awareness on Thursday as members of the NSW Police marked International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).
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Hume Police District Gay and Lesbian Liaison officer (GLLO) and Inspector Alison Brennan spent the day at the Police Academy in Goulburn, spreading information to students and staff about gender diversity and discrimination.
The GLLO initiative was adopted about 25 years ago by the NSW police to facilitate inclusiveness among the LGBTI community.
“The GLLO brand is very well known, it’s about raising awareness of our support towards the LGBTI community ” she said.
“In metro areas, such as the middle of Sydney, there are so many more resources for the LGBTI community as opposed to rural areas where there are less support services.”
There are currently three GLLO officers in the HPD, one in Yass, Goulburn and Young.
Since her appointment in Yass about 18 months ago, Inspector Brennan has only received three requests for her services as a GLLO officer.
She said members of the public could seek out a GLLO officer to speak about a criminal offence, harrasment, discrimination or advice.
“I appreciate people from the LGBTI community might be apprehensive at approaching the police with whatever their issue may be, but this is about raising the profile of the GLLO program,” she said.
“International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia is supported around the world…the LGBTI community feel isolated or feel alone, but they can speak to us – and we can help.”
Superintendent Michael Rowan said the day was about discrimination, and “putting sunlight” on gender diversity.
“Historically people have been discriminated because of their sexual preferences. What we’re saying is that it’s never been right,” he said.
“What we as an organisation do is we have people around so there is someone identified they can have that discussion with.”