Richmond RCMP is once again showing its support for the local 2SLGBTQI+ community by raising the Pride flag in recognition of June being Pride month.
For the past three years, and as part of the Community Engagement Team, Richmond RCMP’s Diversity and Inclusion Section has been working to develop strong relationships within the local 2SLGBTQI+ community.
“Connecting with marginalized communities can be challenging, but by raising the Pride flag we are showing our local 2SLGBTQI+ community that we intend to foster and grow strong relationships,” said Const. Jace Rondario.
Beyond flying the symbolic flag, Richmond RCMP has been reaching out to the 2SLGBTQI+ community in other ways, as well.
In addition to attending events, the RCMP also promotes public safety and awareness campaigns focused on the 2SLGBTQI+ community, such as “Safe Place” and “Project Rainbow.”
Under the Safe Place program, local businesses display a logo identifying their location as a place of refuge for members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community who are victims of crime or seeking personal safety.
These businesses offer a safe place where people can call police and wait for them to arrive.
Project Rainbow is a national awareness campaign aimed at demonstrating the acceptance, diversity and inclusiveness of the RCMP as a modern employer.
Richmond RCMP also supports less formal 2SLGBTQI+ projects as well, like ‘Out-on-Patrol’ which is a non-profit peer-support group for 2SLGBTQI+ law enforcement officers.
“Focusing on people is one of the key pillars of our strategic plan at Richmond RCMP,” said Supt. Julie Drotar, Senior Operations Officer and second-in-command at Richmond RCMP.
“By raising the Pride flag, we are showing Richmond, BC, Canada, and the rest of the world, that we are focusing on the 2SLGBTQI+ community, and standing alongside them, as we advocate for equality, respect and inclusivity.”
Local businesses and organizations interested in participating in the Safe Place program are encouraged to contact Richmond RCMP’s Diversity and Inclusion Section at 604-278-1212.
