Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Fotheringham, the president of the Police Superintendents’ Association (PSA), has voiced his concerns over Home Secretary Suella Braverman’s recent scrutiny of police participation in events like Pride. Fotheringham took issue with Braverman’s decision to investigate “police impartiality” and her assertions that certain activities, such as waving Pride flags, symbolize “highly contested ideologies.”
In a recent speech at the PSA Conference, Fotheringham emphasized the importance of language in shaping public perception. He argued that when the government uses such language, it portrays policing as “political rather than inclusive.” This, he warns, can lead to a rhetoric of discrimination against marginalized communities.
Fotheringham specifically addressed Braverman’s letter to chief constables, which questioned activities such as “dancing and fraternising with political demonstrators” and displaying the Progress flag or wearing badges. He defended these actions as deeply personal and passionate matters for both police officers and their communities.
The PSA president emphasized that he has witnessed numerous examples of effective community engagement and a sincere desire to promote inclusivity among police officers. Fotheringham believes that trust and confidence in the police begin with allowing officers to be their authentic selves at work.
He further highlighted the PSA’s commitment to fostering diversity and supporting LGBT+ colleagues and communities. Notably, the organization recently contributed to funding a national conference for the LGBT+ National Police Network, reinforcing their dedication to standing with their colleagues and communities.
Braverman’s criticisms extended beyond Pride events, encompassing other perceived “political” activities by police forces. These included painting police cars in Progress flag colors, taking the knee, apologizing for institutional racism, and encouraging the uptake of critical race theory, gender ideology, and eco-extremism as policing frameworks. Braverman argued that these actions damaged public confidence in policing, particularly in contentious areas of public debate.
The debate surrounding policing and inclusivity continues to be a complex and evolving conversation, with both sides presenting valid arguments. As discussions unfold, it remains essential to balance the principles of policing with the values of inclusivity and diversity.
Trust and Confidence in Policing: An Ongoing Challenge
Recent years have seen a decline in public trust in the police, particularly in London’s Metropolitan Police, following high-profile cases like the Grindr killer Stephen Port and the tragic rape and murder of Sarah Everard by off-duty constable Wayne Couzens. These incidents have sparked debates about the role of policing and the need for greater accountability within law enforcement agencies.
In an era where inclusivity and diversity are celebrated as essential societal values, finding the right balance in policing remains a challenging endeavor. The dialogue initiated by Suella Braverman’s statements underscores the ongoing importance of these discussions.
As police forces strive to serve and protect diverse communities, maintaining public trust and confidence remains a paramount objective. The pursuit of this goal must be informed by a nuanced understanding of the evolving dynamics between policing and the values of inclusivity and diversity within contemporary society.
