Big Pride in the Garden City

Two of Canterbury’s Diversity Liaison Officers (DLOs), Constables Don Munro and Laura Mills joined Christchurch in celebrating a bigger and better Pride Week than ever before.

From left: Constable Laura Mills, Miss Mole, Constable Don Munro and Miss Fur Purse at Pride Week. Photo: Supplied

Don and Laura joined the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual and intersex (GLBTI) community for several events in the busy programme, including the Queer Fair, the Women’s Star Show party and a fantasy ball.

Don says Police DLOs have had a presence at Pride Week celebrations for the past five years. “Initially our attendance was met with some scepticism, but each year the ‘ice’ has melted, making people more comfortable and receptive to talking to us about diversity issues,” he says.

“We’re now asked to attend many events and meetings with community groups, and field many more questions than we did when we first started. Pride Week is worth its weight in gold to Canterbury DLOs, and we’ve created some great contacts with groups and individuals through going along.”

Laura says traditionally there hasn’t been a good relationship between the GLBTI and Police, but attending Pride Week really helps break down barriers.

“By attending such events, we’re spreading the word we’re here to serve the public regardless of age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or religion, and we don’t tolerate discrimination inside or outside of the station.”