Police-issue rainbow wristbands are being handed out in the nation's gay communities, in an effort to share the message that the Diversity Liaison Officers (DLOs) are approachable and ready to listen. The DLO Network acts as a link between GLBTI people and police. There are DLOs across the country, who are currently handing out wristbands, which read "Stand tall - be proud. Safer Communities Together". Project Officer for Equity and Diversity at Police National Headquarters Kirsten Newman says Diversity Liaison Officers attend a lot of events and wanted something they could use to promote their network. "To bridge that gap between police and the community and to say 'hey, here's something fun and engaging that we can hand out to the community when we go to events like the Big Gay Out and Out in The Square. Just to promote what we do as DLOs and do it in a relatively cool way." Newman says the wristbands seem to be finding their way around the community already, which she hopes is getting people talking about the message behind them. "That we really encourage everybody in the community, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, to report things that happen to them to the police," she says. Newman says police the liaison officers really want to break down traditional barriers, where GLBTI people did not feel confident and comfortable about reporting crimes. "I think they're getting less and less now . . . but you know, we've still got a wee way to go yet so hopefully things like the bracelets and DLOs being at events provide a good base. There are Diversity Liaison Officers in police districts throughout New Zealand.To contact your local DLO click here For more information on the DLO network click here
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Wednesday, 7th July 2010 - 2:50pm