30/1/2009

North Wales Police today raised a rainbow flag to mark the start of a series of internal staff activities aimed at celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual History Month.

The ceremony at Police Headquarters in Colwyn Bay was organised by The Gay Police Association North Wales and backed by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) and Stonewall Cymru together with supporters and key public stakeholders.

The rainbow flag symbolises not only the continuous struggle for recognition and equality that many lesbian, gay and bisexual people have experienced over the years but its vibrant colours also represent celebration and hope for the future.

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Shannon praised the work of the GPA, saying: "Sexuality is a highly emotive and personal matter and I have great respect for those involved with The Gay Police Association who, over the years, have worked selflessly to promote equality within our organisation."

"I am immensely proud to support our gay officers and staff and I hope that this event sends out a clear message as we continue to strive for inclusivity and equality."

Jenny Porter, community liaison officer for Stonewall Cymru said: "It is a great sign to lesbian, gay and bisexual people in North Wales how much the police has changed and it is encouraging that people have confidence in the police to report homophobic hate crime."

"The flag signifies that we are celebrating the fact that the world is full of people with differing sexual orientations and that everyone should be treated equally and with respect."