Police will march in full uniform for the first time in tomorrow’s Auckland Pride Parade, led by Assistant Police Commissioner Allan Boreham. Police staff took part last year, but wore Police Association branded t-shirts as they were not allowed to march in uniform. Last year police staff marched in Police Association branded t-shirts However with the appointment of new Police Commissioner Mike Bush came a quick change of stance – he made diversity one of the core police values and announced police staff could march in uniform. Commissioner Bush says it will be a proud moment for staff when they march in their full uniform, supported by friends, family and whanau. “As an organisation we look to encourage staff to ‘use who they are’ not ‘lose who you are’ when becoming a police officer,” he says. “Therefore it’s important to encourage staff to show pride in the communities they represent. “We are a diverse organisation and should celebrate that diversity and treasure all the differences that make each of us unique. “This is one of the major reasons that Valuing Diversity is now one of the core values of the New Zealand Police.” Police HQ says over the past year a committee of Auckland Diversity Liaison Officers have been working to ensure the organisation is professionally represented in the parade by sworn and non-sworn staff of various rank, gender identity or orientation. “Staff are well organised and prepared for this year’s parade and while I can’t give too much away… the committee plans to put on a good show. I wish them well for a successful evening,” Bush says.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 20th February 2015 - 9:00am