The LGBTQ+ officers attending Herts Pride
LGBTQ+ Liaison officers will host a stall at Herts Pride this year
Hertfordshire Constabulary’s LGBTQ+ Officers are going to be attending Pride this year in Herts again to promote the community and help attendees make the most of the colourful day.
The event will take place in Watford’s Cassiobury Park.
Superintendent Clare Smith and Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd will take on the roles this weekend.
They have attended the event before and have hosted a stall where they offer support to residents. The officers will be available to give advice on hate crimes in the area and are keen to raise awareness around the issues the LGBTQ+ community is faced with.
Taking place today (14 August), the day is set to be particularly special after last year’s event was cancelled because of lockdown restrictions. Herts constabulary is hoping that the officers will make the day even better by promoting an ethos which values diversity in Hertfordshire.
Preventing hate crimes
One of the most prevalent issues can be dealing with hate crimes. This can include assaults, harassment or criminal damage directed at an individual as a result of ‘who they are or what they believe in’, according to Hertfordshire Police Constabulary.
The Herts Against Hate website offers more information on hate crimes, and the officers are hoping that they will be able to hear from residents about their experiences first-hand.
Superintendent Clare Smith said: “Our friendly and supportive LGBT+ Liaison Officers will be on hand to answer any questions and we want to hear your views. What are the issues affecting you? How can we help?”
She has also emphasised the need to diversify the force in Hertfordshire and welcome individuals from all backgrounds.
“If you’re keen to start a career with us, you’ll be able to find out about our recruitment opportunities. We believe that a diverse workforce is a more productive workforce and we’d love to see applications from our local LGBT+ community.”
Many people feel that there should be more education surrounding issues the community, which is why the event is valued so much by its attendees. As stated on the Pride website: ‘Despite great progress being made towards equality, there is still so much more we can do. LGBTQ+ people face discrimination everyday.’
Pride is all about creating an environment which feels safe and inclusive. This year, the event has organised a range of stalls for the community to enjoy, a stage with all kinds of acts; from drag singers to dancers, and even a dog show.