Hello again everyone, and a happy New Year. I trust that you all enjoyed the festivities over Christmas, and that it doesn’t all seem like a distant memory already!
I would like to start this month by putting a rumour to bed. I have been approached on a couple of occasions by people asking me if I am leaving my role as the community liaison officer with Calgary Police Service. It would seem as though there are some rumours doing the rounds that I am departing, to be replaced by an LGBT staff member. I can categorically state that this is not the case. However, I have asked an "out" male member to assist with the workload involved with the internal staff group here at headquarters so, perhaps, that has become public and people are putting things together? Either way, I reiterate that this is absolutely the best job I have had in 22 years policing, and certainly have no plans to change my work area any time soon! I am looking forward to seeing you all at the rodeo, Pride and the various other community events this year.
Talking of events, I can share with you some exciting news. You may recall that my Chief’s Advisory Board members and I put together a panel event last year here at police headquarters: titled "Is Love All You Need?", we played a short movie about bullying in the LGBTQ* community and had a panel of guests speak to some questions raised by that movie. It was a resounding success, and we received some incredible feedback. As a direct result we have decided to host another event, this time focusing on domestic violence within the community. Yes, it does exist, and no, people don’t really like to talk about it, but hopefully we can create awareness about this topic and reduce some of the stigma that is attached to it. Victims of domestic violence deserve support, and we aim to further develop the relationship between the community and the police to the point where a victim doesn’t have to think twice about picking up the phone or going into a police station in their time of crisis. It is early in terms of planning, so I am unable, at this time, to confirm what the event will look like in terms of presentation. What I can tell you is that the date and venue are booked: it will be held at the John Dutton Theatre on the afternoon of Sunday, October 2nd, 2016. We are absolutely delighted to have secured the John Dutton Theatre, as the capacity is far greater than the auditorium here at headquarters, meaning that we should be able to accommodate everyone wishing to attend. Of course, as more details become available, I will update you here as well as via social media.
In the meantime, please do not hesitate to connect with me if you have any questions, comments or concerns at abuck@calgarypolice.ca. I can assure you of my best attention at all times. As always, please look out for each other, look after each other, and I will speak with you again next time.
