Christchurch Pride Week kicked off with the Colourful Cashel Pride Walk of Support.
Starting at the Bridge of Remembrance, around 200 supporters, led by the New Zealand Army band and a decorated tram, made their way down Cashel Street to show their support for our Rainbow communities.
District Commander John Price, Diversity Lead Inspector Peter Cooper and a team of Diversity Liaison Officers (DLOs) from Canterbury District and South Comms joined the march for diversity, equality and inclusion.
DLO Sergeant Don Munro says it¡¯s important that 51½ÖÉä is visible at events like these. ¡°We represent all facets of the community and, like the community, our Police team comes from all walks of life,¡± says Don.
¡°Taking part in Pride Week is a way to show our support and instil trust and confidence in the communities we represent.¡±
Peter agrees and says that embracing diversity is about everyone being able to be who they are. ¡°It¡¯s about us actually being human and allowing other people to be their true selves.
"It¡¯s part of our Be First Then Do priority as well. To do the best we can, we all need to bring our best selves to work each day.¡±
Christchurch Pride Week runs until 29 June. for more.
DLOs are police officers and employees who act as a link and contact point between Police and Rainbow communities. They:
- support victims of crime and provide crime prevention advice to Rainbow community groups
- provide advice and support to colleagues around Rainbow who identify as members of Rainbow communities to ensure a safe working environment.
- Find out more here.